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Alexander Volkov criticizes Ciryl Gane's fighting style and title win

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 6:15 AM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Alexander Volkov criticizes Ciryl Gane's fighting style and title win

Summary

Alexander Volkov criticized UFC heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane for being ‘dirty’ in his fighting techniques during an appearance on 'The Ariel Helwani Show.' Gane elevated to the heavyweight champion after Tom Aspinall vacated the title due to injuries from their previous fight. Volkov highlighted Gane's controversial actions, including eye pokes and repeated strikes to the back of the head. Volkov aims to re-establish his standing in the division when he fights Rizvan Kuniev at UFC 333 next month, which could position him for a title shot against Gane or Josh Hokit, set to compete in November.

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Status Watch

•Volkov refers to Gane as 'dirty' over past fight techniques.
•Gane became champion after Aspinall vacated the title due to injuries.
•Volkov will fight Rizvan Kuniev at UFC 333 next month.
•A win for Volkov could set up a title shot against the Gane vs. Hokit winner.

Latest Updates

6:15 AMYahoo Sports — Alexander Volkov Blasts ‘Dirty’ Ciryl Gane

What they're saying

"
UFC heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov blasted newly-minted UFC heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane, calling him “dirty.”Gane became the new UFC heavyweight champ after former champ Tom Aspinall was forced to vacate his title due to eye injuries he suffered in his fight against Gane last year at UFC 321.It’s ironic, then, that Gane is now the […] The post Alexander Volkov Blasts ‘Dirty’ Ciryl Gane appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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