What's at stake

A heavyweight main-card bout will affect both fighters' momentum and their immediate standing in the UFC pecking order.

A KO/TKO victory raises profile and title chatter quickly, while a decision win moves rankings more slowly and limits highlight value.

Who's in play

Alexander Volkov is a long‑range striker and veteran heavyweight with notable UFC experience and a history of late stoppages.

Waldo Cortes‑Acosta is a younger power striker trying to prove himself against top opposition; their coaches, corner calls, and health on fight night decide control.

What drives it

Striking accuracy, reach management, and single-shot power determine how likely an early KO/TKO is.

Takedown success, clinch control, cardio, and in‑fight adjustments shift the outcome midfight. A fast start from either man increases finishes; conservative pacing favors decisions.

What to watch

Weigh‑in results, visible signs of a hard weight cut, and any late injuries or travel issues will move odds before the cage door closes.

Monitor open-workout footage, coach interviews, and announced gameplans. Note who pushes the pace in round one and early leg‑kick frequency for clues about a stoppage versus a distance fight.