UFC: Curtis Blaydes fulfils ‘rag doll’ prediction in win over Alexander Volkov as Josh Emmett beats Shane Burgos in fight for the ages
- ‘Razor’ Blaydes secures 14 takedowns against a helpless ‘Drago’ Volkov as he moves one step closer to a title fight
- Emmett says he ‘blew his ACL’ seconds into the fight before knocking Burgos down twice in the decision win
Heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes did exactly what he vowed to do in a “rag doll” decision win against Alexander Volkov at UFC Fight Night at the APEX in Las Vegas on Saturday.
“Razor” Blaydes (14-2, one no contest) secured 14 of 25 takedown attempts against a valiant “Drago” Volkov (31-8). The Russian had somewhat of a resurgence in the fourth and fifth rounds, outstriking Blaydes but still conceding in wrestling.
Blaydes, who is now on a four-fight win streak since losing to Francis Ngannou in 2018, handed Volkov more takedowns in this fight than he has received in his whole UFC career.
“I’m tired,” said 29-year-old American Blaydes, who conducted most of his post-fight ESPN interview catching his breath and with his eyes closed. “Volkov was a lot harder to take down. He’s got big, strong legs. When I get to the thighs and hips I’m usually able to win there.”
The 31-year-old Volkov suffered only his second loss since signing for the UFC in 2016. His last fight was a unanimous decision win against former NFL star Greg Hardy in November.