Henry Cejudo: UFC 321 Volkov vs. Almeida Winner to Secure Title Shot
UFC 321 is set to feature a pivotal heavyweight battle, which may determine the next title contender in the division. Current champion Tom Aspinall will defend his title against Ciryl Gane in the main event. This showdown comes as part of a competitive lineup scheduled for Abu Dhabi.
Key Matchup: Volkov vs. Almeida
A significant fight on the main card will see Alexander Volkov face Jailton Almeida. This matchup carries heavy implications, as the winner may secure a title shot. Former champions Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman discussed the high stakes of this contest on their Pound 4 Pound podcast, emphasizing that the victor could be the rightful No. 1 contender.
Heavyweight Division Restructuring
Cejudo expressed concerns about the current state of the heavyweight division. He noted that many top fighters have either retired or moved on, leaving the contender pool somewhat depleted. Notable departures include:
- Jon Jones, who retired as the reigning champion.
- Stipe Miocic, who stepped back after a loss in November 2023.
- Francis Ngannou, who left the UFC in 2023 to join PFL.
These changes have opened the door for emerging talents, making the upcoming fight between Volkov and Almeida crucial for establishing the next title challenger.
Fight Statistics
| Fighter | Record | Recent Fights |
|---|---|---|
| Alexander Volkov | 34 Wins, 10 Losses | Last fight: Controversial split decision loss to Gane |
| Jailton Almeida | 18 Wins, 2 Losses | Last 9 fights: 8 wins, 6 by KO or submission in the first round |
Expert Predictions
Cejudo favors Volkov due to his size and experience. He believes Volkov has an edge in power, which plays a crucial role in heavyweight matchups. However, Usman backs Almeida, praising his relentless takedown approach. He noted that Volkov, while technically skilled, may be a target due to his striking style.
Both fighters bring compelling narratives to the octagon, making their clash not just significant for the competitors but for the entire heavyweight landscape. UFC 321 promises to reshape the future of the division, particularly for the victor of Volkov vs. Almeida, who stands on the brink of a potential title shot.
