“It’s Really a Different Business System…”: Former Bellator Champ Alexander Volkov Opens Up on the “Sad” Ending of Bellator Amid Rumors of a Possible PFL Buyout

The UFC has been the leading MMA promotion in the world of combat sports for a while now. UFC Fighters such as Conor McGregor have been able to divert attention from the mainstream media and other sports communities to MMA and the UFC. However, the UFC’s rival competitors are looking to make big moves. One big name in this discussion is that of the PFL.

The American MMA promotion has recently signed contracts with big names like Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion, and Jake Paul, the famous YouTuber turned boxer. Amidst this acquisition run, the company is also rumored to be taking over the rival promotion Bellator. Former Bellator fighter Alexander Volkov spoke out about the move that could signal the end of the promotion.

Ex-Bellator champ speaks on the UFC-rival group

The current UFC Heavyweight Volkov started his career with M1-Global before moving on to Bellator. In a recent interview, the #7 ranked UFC Heavyweight was asked whether it would be bad for the sport if the two companies merged. The former Bellator champion said, “Maybe. Maybe it is like, because, you know, Bellator gave me a really really good jump in my career. Especially in the US, and also because before, I was more, fighting just in Russia. And Bellator gave me like an opportunity for people from another part of the world recognizing me.”

‘Drago’ was grateful for the opportunity Bellator provided him with. But he was also able to recognize the benefits the move might have. He continued, “If it will be more promotions in the world, much better for fans, for everybody. But fans also want to know who is the best fighter all over the world.” He indicated that the acquisition might provide an opportunity for different fighters to face each other. Volkov said, “It’s interesting for all and for fighters also.”

Volkov shares his personal preference

While he acknowledged the benefits, ‘Drago’ still stated, “For me I think it will be good if promotion will stay like this like how its going right now. But with like opportunity with champions or some fighters fighting each other in different promotions, how it goes in boxing, something like that.” The Heavyweight also expressed his apprehension at MMA, replicating the boxing industry’s atmosphere. Volkov asked, “But now, is it possible right now to do in MMA because its really a different business system for all promotions?”

Read More: UFC Legend Asks PFL for $2,000,000 for Francis Ngannou Fight Months Before Ex-UFC Champ’s Epic Showdown With Tyson Fury

The ex-Bellator champ, however, did admit his dismay at the acquisition. He was thankful to the promotion for bringing him an American viewership. The acquisition would mean the dissolution of a part of his history. He said, “I will be sad if Bellator will stop doing his job. It will be good if it will be like a more big promotion in the world.” As the UFC navigates an anti-trust lawsuit, PFL seems to be doing pretty well. Do you think they will overtake the UFC soon? Let us know what you think.

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