This is a rematch from a fight in 2021 where Gane danced around won a pretty clear striking decision.

Volkov was able to get back in the win column and do so in a striking match against one of the scariest strikers in the division. That is a testament to Volkov's skills and gameplan. His gameplan in that fight was to be long against a flat footed power striker. That gameplan won't work in this fight. Gane already beat him once with faster feet and hands and likely does it again. The interesting part about their first matchup though is that Volkov attempted zero takedowns and Gane actually attempted 4. Volkov has not covered the ground in the striking gaps so he will need to at least attempt takedowns to mix things up. The problem is, he hasn't taken someone down since 2020 and I just don't see a dramatic shift here. Gane should win the rematch.

Ciryl Gane

Ciryl Gane is a technical striker who has high volume and a well rounded arsenal. He has one of the best in and out striking games in heavyweight history. His striking differential is an impressive 5-2 which speaks to how incredible his footwork and movement really is. He also uses that footwork to setup the occasional takedown. He took down Dantale Mayes 3 times Rozenstruik twice and Ngannou once. But if we learned anything from the Ngannou fight and his last fight with Jon Jones its that Ciryl can be outwrestled. He is coming off the KO win over Serghei Spivac where he laded 109 strikes to Serghei's 11.

Alexander Volkov

Alexander Volkov is a top 10 heavyweight and has been for the better part of 7 years. He is a very good striker and a high IQ fighter who is fast and has volume. He picks his shots well and will adapt in a fight. He is not a big power guy but his volume and timing suit him well enough to get the ocassional finish. He is a very durable guy who has fought the literal best in the division since his UFC debut in 2016. He is coming off the decision win over Sergey Pavlovich where he jabeed his way to a win.