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Gane ekes out controversial split decision in rematch vs. Volkov

Chris Unger / UFC / Getty

LAS VEGAS - Ciryl Gane defeated Alexander Volkov via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) in a heavyweight rematch at UFC 310 on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Gane previously defeated Volkov in June 2021 in a lopsided, five-round decision.

The second meeting was much more competitive, with Gane edging out Volkov 43-39 in significant strikes but Volkov outlanding Gane 105-48 in total strikes.

Additionally, Gane scored two takedowns for three minutes of control time on the ground and Volkov earned three takedowns for four minutes of control time.

The fight came down to the second round. Gane took the first round on all three judges' scorecards, while Volkov unanimously won the third. Gane took the second round on two scorecards.

Social media was not fond of the judges' decision:

Gane left the Octagon before being brought back to do his postfight interview with UFC color commentator Joe Rogan. The Frenchman said he broke his toe during the fight.

UFC CEO Dana White went over to talk to Volkov after the fight.

Volkov relied on his grappling more than usual against Gane, taking him down in the first and third rounds. Gane and Volkov both connected with solid strikes on the feet, but Volkov appeared to land the more impactful shots, including a spinning backfist in the second round.

Gane has now won two fights in a row, while Volkov's five-fight winning streak is over.

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