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Tai Tuivasa, also known as ‘Bam Bam,’ finds himself at an intriguing juncture in his career. Tuivasa is set to face the Russian fighter Alexander Volkov in the upcoming UFC 293 event. His future in the heavyweight division will be significantly influenced by this fight, especially since he has suffered consecutive losses, with his winning streak being broken by Ciryl Gane.

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This upcoming Saturday, the fighters are set to grace the octagon within the confines of Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena. Volkov, a former Bellator MMA champion, is currently on a streak of two consecutive wins. Both were achieved with impressive first-round knockouts against formidable opponents, namely Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Alexandr Romanov.

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Heavyweight clash at UFC Fight Night 209 Paris: Gane vs. Tuivasa

Ciryl Gane and Tai Tuivasa delivered a heavyweight spectacle a year ago that will remain etched in MMA history. At UFC Fight Night 209 Paris, UFC’s first-ever event in France, these ambitious strikers engaged in an electrifying fight that showcased their extraordinary competencies. The fight swung back and forth, preserving combat fans on the edge of their seats. In the end, Gane had a knockout victory. However, the true winners were the fans, as both opponents were rightfully provided the Fight of the Night bonus, each pocketing a well-deserved $50,000. Now, one year later, Tuivasa will be looking for some sort of redemption.

Read more: How Much Does Joe Rogan Earn Per Event? All About His UFC Income and Other Business Sources

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The battle of redemption: Tai Tuivasa vs. Alexander Volkov

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The Tuivasa vs. Volkov showdown may not be the headline attraction of the pay-per-view card, but it promises to deliver an entertaining spectacle for fight fans. Tai Tuivasa, a beloved figure in the UFC known for his vibrant personality and knockout prowess, is in dire need of a resurgence. He’s recently suffered back-to-back stoppage losses to formidable opponents in Sergei Pavlovich and Ciryl Gane. Tuivasa is now on a mission to recapture the magic that propelled him to a remarkable five-fight finishing streak.

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In the opposite corner of the octagonal arena looms an imposing foe, none other than Alexander Volkov, a former champion in the heavyweight realms of both Bellator and M-1. Volkov finds himself surfing a crest of momentous success, having clinched two consecutive first-round knockouts. His only setbacks in recent years have come at the hands of elite heavyweights like Ciryl Gane, Tom Aspinall, and Curtis Blaydes.

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A win for Volkov would mark a great milestone in his UFC journey, placing him one step in the direction of the division’s best contenders. For Tuivasa, a victory in this matchup could be the catalyst for rejuvenating his image and rekindling his profession, thus staying relevant in the cutthroat heavyweight division. Who do you think will emerge with an win come Saturday?

Watch this story: Is Israel Adesanya Moving Up to Light Heavyweight to Rekindle Rivalry With Alex Pereira After UFC 293 Sean Strickland Fight?

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Written by

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Suryakant Das

3,440 Articles

Suryakant Das is a senior writer who leads UFC live coverage at EssentiallySports, known for his broad expertise and standout professionalism in MMA journalism. Over two years in the field, he has become a key voice on real-time event updates, pre- and post-fight interviews, and analysis of viral moments from the Joe Rogan Experience. His dynamic reporting is backed by selection to the Journalistic Excellence Program, which hones advanced editorial skills and strategic coverage approaches for top talent. Suryakant’s career is defined by his ability to deliver both speed and depth. His versatile background spans sports journalism, content writing, and editorial roles, helping him navigate fast-paced live coverage and deliver meaningful stories with clarity and precision. Recognition from respected MMA figures such as Nina-Marie Daniele and Hall of Famer Michael Bisping further marks him as a trusted authority in the UFC community.

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Rupkamal Sarma

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