Ciryl Gane (14-2) became the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion in September after Tom Aspinall vacated the belt. Gane will defend his title against tenth-ranked, undefeated challenger Josh Hokit (10-0) at UFC 334 in New York.
Paddy Pimblett recently argued that fourth-ranked Alexander Volkov deserves the heavyweight title shot over the winner of the Alex Pereira and Sergei Pavlovich matchup.
Paddy Pimblett Backs Alexander Volkov for Next Heavyweight Title Shot
Pimblett believes Volkov’s win on the UFC 333 main card in Abu Dhabi complicates the heavyweight title picture. “The Baddy” was convinced by Volkov’s performance, telling UFC brass that the Russian heavyweight deserves the next title shot in the division.
“Good win for Volkov… Let’s everyone know that he’s still the man. I think he’s got to be next in line for the title, as simple as that,” Pimblett said.
Paddy Pimblett backs Alexander Volkov for heavyweight title shot after dominant win: “He’s got to be next in line”
“Good win for Volkov… Let’s everyone know that he’s still the man. I think he’s got to be next in line for the title, as simple as that.”
Via: @PaddyTheBaddy https://t.co/gtMULz0eSp
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) October 25, 2026
Volkov (41-11) defeated Rizvan Kuniev by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27) on his 38th birthday. It marked his 20th promotional win and his third straight victory. He used jabs and leg kicks to control Kuniev, dropped him with a calf kick in the third round, and took his back late in the fight for a rear-naked choke attempt.
Kuniev survived the final round but failed to match Volkov’s pace, dropping his professional record to 14-4-1. Volkov generated headlines before the event by asking Dana White what more he needed to do to earn a title shot.
Initially, the UFC boss appeared not to recognize the Russian heavyweight, which led to endless chatter online. However, after his win, Volkov repeated the question and color commentator Daniel Cormier told him to keep his eyes on the upcoming heavyweight title fight in New York.
Alexander Volkov’s Case Meets a Crowded Heavyweight Queue
Volkov has 52 fights of professional MMA experience. His last defeat took place nearly two years ago, when he lost a split decision to Ciryl Gane in December 2024. Though he has never fought for a UFC title, his resume earns him consideration.
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However, current matchmaking works against him. The promotion expects the winner of the Pereira vs. Pavlovich fight at UFC 335 to face the winner of Gane vs. Hokit, leaving Volkov on the outside looking in. If Aspinall returns from injury, he could also bypass Volkov for an immediate shot.
Without Aspinall jumping the line, Volkov must still wait for three major heavyweight fights to resolve before getting his opportunity. For now, he must rely on Pimblett’s public backing to maintain his momentum.
