Alexander Volkov, the towering Russian heavyweight known as ‘Drago’, made headlines beyond his dominant performance at UFC Saudi Arabia by incorporating an unconventional corner routine: a mid-fight hair styling session. Volkov, standing at an imposing 6’7″, showcased his prowess inside the octagon against fellow countryman Sergei Pavlovich, utilizing his significant height and reach advantage to control the fight with his powerful jab.
Unconventional Corner Scene
During breaks between rounds, while most fighters focus on receiving instructions and physical adjustments from their corner, Volkov was seen having his hair meticulously styled. This unique moment, captured on camera and shared widely across social media platforms, added a touch of flair to his already impressive display of athleticism and skill.
The post-fight atmosphere between Volkov and Pavlovich was marked by tension when Volkov extended a sportsmanlike handshake, only to be rebuffed with a push from Pavlovich. Despite this brief altercation, it was Volkov’s pre-fight preparation and the unusual corner activity that sparked the most interest and amusement among fans and commentators alike.
Volkov’s Explanation
In a post-fight interview, Volkov humorously addressed the unconventional scene, explaining that his decision to bring a stylist into his corner was due to his longer-than-usual hair length during the fight camp. He praised his stylist for keeping his hair in check during the fight, preventing it from obstructing his vision or becoming a distraction.
“I grew my hair out a little longer than I usually do going into the fight,” Volkov shared with the media. “Usually it’s a lot shorter. So because of this long hair I was forced to bring with me on my team a special stylist. Like let’s say a ‘styling coach’.”
Fan and Media Reaction
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with fans expressing both surprise and amusement at Volkov’s unique corner preparation. Many commented on the contrast between the intense physical demands of a UFC fight and the unexpected sight of a fighter receiving a grooming touch-up mid-competition.
The video clip and photos of Volkov’s hair styling session circulated widely, generating memes and light-hearted commentary within the MMA community. Some fans praised Volkov for his dedication to maintaining a professional appearance even in the midst of battle, while others saw it as a humorous and memorable moment in UFC history.
Stephen’s Value:
This article provides a behind-the-scenes look into a rarely seen aspect of UFC competition: the personal grooming choices and rituals of fighters. It explores how Volkov’s unique approach to preparation and self-care added a distinctive element to his performance, resonating with both sports enthusiasts and casual observers intrigued by the intersection of athleticism and personal style.
