Malhadinho puts pressure on Volkov after Russian threatens not to accept confrontation because it is 'not worth it'

J. Malhadinho (left) signed a contract to face A. Volkov (right) in UFC Atlanta. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER FIGHTS

Prepared and with a signed contract to face Alexander Volkov No. UFC Atlanta on June 14, Jailton Malhadinho is facing an unfortunate unforeseen event: a possible refusal from the Russian. On the morning of this Thursday (3), 'Drago', as he is known, used his social networks to state that he does not intend to face the Brazilian because the confrontation is not worth it.

“There was a fight announcement made about my fight against Jailton Almeida, which was not official, but was being worked on to make it happen. So far, I have no plans to face Almeida in June. Why? Because I don't think it's worth facing the sixth-ranked fighter, whoever thinks it's worth it, tell me why. It's just a fight for the sake of a fight. Let's wait for a better offer,” Volkov said in his Instagram.

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Immediately, Malhadinho responded to Volkov's statement and stated that there is no other viable option other than accepting confrontation.

“I already said yes to the UFC. And you, Volkov: June 14, Atlanta, Georgia. I just want to fight. This talk about ranking doesn’t make any sense. You don’t want to fight me and you’re coming off a loss. It’s the only fight available,” replied the Brazilian.

Jailton Malhadinho in victory in the UFC (Photo: Instagram)

Third in the rankings, Volkov is coming off a rematch defeat against Cyryl Gane and his last triumph was over Sergei Pavlovich, currently fourth in the category. The fifth, Curtis blaydes, has a fight scheduled for June, against a newcomer to the organization. So far, there has been no statement from the representatives about the case.

I already said yes to the UFC! And you Volkov? June, 14. Atlanta Georgia!
I just wanna fight! This talk about ranking positions don't make sense, you just didn't fight me and you are coming from a defeat, that's the only fight available@ Mickmaynard2 @AlexDragoVolkov

— Jailton Almeida “Malhadinho” (@Malhadinho_UFC) April 3, 2025