From Russia to the US: Alexander Volkov’s Strategic Relocation for UFC Success

From Russia to the US: Alexander Volkov’s Strategic Relocation for UFC Success

Alexander Volkov’s Journey in UFC

Renowned Russian fighter Alexander Volkov has made a significant career decision by relocating to the United States. Before this move, Volkov was training in Moscow and was a rare exception among Russian fighters who generally move to the U.S after signing contracts with UFC or other prestigious American organizations.

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Volkov’s professional journey in the UFC began in November 2016, when he debuted by defeating Timothy Johnson in Northern Ireland. This followed his successful defense of his M-1 Global heavyweight champion title in June 2016. The fighter has since participated in 14 matches in the UFC, appearing in tournaments in Russia, the Netherlands, the UK, UAE, and predominantly in the U.S.

Why the Move to the U.S?

Despite having opportunities to train around the world, Volkov had preferred to prepare for his fights in Moscow. However, he acknowledged the U.S as a more suitable environment for his training due to the availability of top-level fighters and better sparring partners. His decision to relocate was publicized following his victory over Jairzinho Rozenstruik in June 2022.

Another factor influencing Volkov’s decision was the issue of flights. In 2020, he faced difficulties when he was stranded in the U.S due to flight cancellations. By moving to the U.S, Volkov believes he can avoid such problems in the future. However, his optimism regarding getting more fight opportunities in the U.S could be considered excessive, given the fact that he did not appear in the octagon for nine months after defeating Rozenstruik.

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Life in the U.S and Future Aspirations

As per his recent statements, Volkov has been in the U.S for a few months. Initially, he spent six months in Los Angeles before moving to Las Vegas. He expressed that the change was necessary to work with new sparring partners and gain experience with different opponents. Volkov is aiming to make the most out of the remaining five years of his career before turning 35.

A Strategic Decision

The relocation does not suggest that Volkov will not return to Russia. It is a strategic decision aimed at advancing his professional career in the UFC. The success of this move is to be determined in the future. If it results in more frequent fights against stronger opponents and, ultimately, a chance at the title, it will prove to be a justified decision. However, if UFC continues to overlook his availability and only offers him weak opponents, the move may not be considered successful.

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