Alexander Volkov predicts knockout over Jairzinho Rozenstruik at UFC Las Vegas 56

A. Volkov is ranked seventh among UFC heavyweights. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

With an eye on the top-5 of the heavyweight division, Alexander Volkov will face a tough challenge Jairzinho Rozenstruik, UFC Las Vegas 56. No'half day' of the show that takes place next Saturday (04), the Russian fighter praised his opponent but bet on his versatility to be able to emerge victorious from the Octagon.

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“My opponent is very dangerous. He has a lot of power in his hands, he's a great fighter in striking, but I've fought with some guys who also have power in their hands, who are good on their feet and everything like that. I believe I have a good striking game, so I will also try to show my best in this fight. I believe my technique is much better than his. Maybe I don't have as strong a punch, but I certainly have more technique and I'm sure I have more power in my kicks. I definitely believe I'm better at wrestling and grapple, so I'm feeling like it's going to be a good fight for me. Let’s see what will happen,” said Volkov.

The Russian fighter recognized the power of his opponent's strikes, praised Jairzinho's tough chin and stated that he will try to knock him out.

“It’s hard to predict because sometimes when two big strikers meet in the octagon, the fight could be a little boring because both fighters could get a little scared or something. I believe or want this fight to end quickly for me because it is the easiest way to end this fight and return to Russia. So, for sure, I will try to find an opportunity to knock him out, but, let's see what happens because he has a tough chin. A lot of people punched him in the head, and it was nothing for him, but I'm going to try not only to punch, but to kick as well. So, let's see”, concluded 'Drago'.

Ranked seventh in the heavyweight rankings, Volkov is trying to recover from the defeat he suffered in his last fight, to Tom aspinall. In his last four duels, the Russian achieved two triumphs and two setbacks. With a vast professional career that began in 2009, the 33-year-old fighter has a record of 34 positive results and 10 negative results.