Alexander Volkov is reportedly set to return to the UFC cage in May, aiming to advance his position for a heavyweight title shot. After his victory against Jailton Almeida in October, Volkov appeared poised for a championship opportunity, but subsequent events in the heavyweight division altered his immediate path.
The heavyweight title fight at UFC 321 ended under unexpected circumstances, which impacted Volkov’s chances. Despite Tom Aspinall partnering with promoter Eddie Hearn for his career, Volkov seems determined to secure his next fight independently and maintain his relevance in the title picture.
Volkov to Face Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC 328
With no confirmed date for a rematch between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane, Volkov has taken initiative to solidify his standing by agreeing to a bout against Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC 328 on May 9. This development was reported by Leo Walker Guimaraes on social media platform X, although the fight is not officially finalized yet.
Cortes-Acosta has emerged as a strong contender after a victory over Derrick Lewis earlier this year, increasing the stakes of their matchup. The potential fight holds significance as it pairs two of the division’s rising challengers in a contest that could determine the next title contender.
The reaction from UFC president Dana White following Volkov’s controversial defeat to Ciryl Gane in early 2024 raised discussions about whether Volkov should have been matched with Aspinall last year. Volkov’s win over Almeida, who is no longer with the promotion, was viewed as underwhelming, which opened the door for Cortes-Acosta to advance in the rankings if Volkov delayed competing.
Tom Aspinall’s Progress Amid Heavyweight Division Challenges
Heavyweight champ Tom Aspinall recently provided updates on his recovery status during a press conference, revealing that he has resumed gym workouts but remains limited due to medical advice. In an interview with talkSPORT, Aspinall explained that while he is focusing on fitness, he has yet to reintroduce contact training.
“I still can’t take no contact or nothing so got to wait a little bit longer on that but I have started on the old fitness and stuff. Yeah, just working on the physical side more than anything at the minute.”
Tom Aspinall, UFC Heavyweight Champion
The heavyweight division currently faces difficulties due to injuries affecting top fighters and a roster that some describe as lacking depth. This scenario places added pressure on contenders like Volkov and Cortes-Acosta to step forward and define the division’s future.
Implications of Volkov’s Upcoming Match and the Heavyweight Landscape
Volkov’s upcoming bout against Cortes-Acosta could prove pivotal in clarifying the title picture amid ongoing uncertainties involving champions and challengers. A strong performance in May would emphasize Volkov’s role as a leading contender, keeping the heavyweight title hunt active despite setbacks within the division.
As heavyweight fans await this high-stakes fight, the division’s shape in the coming months will rely heavily on how these key matchups unfold, along with the recovery and return timelines for fighters like Tom Aspinall.
EXCLUSIVO: pude apurar que Alexander Volkov assinou contrato para enfrentar Waldo Cortes-Acosta em 9 de maio, UFC 328 pic.twitter.com/LEhVUXO8lH
— Léo Walker Guimaraes (@leoguimaraesmma) March 6, 2026
