Mark Vologdin’s UFC debut may have ended in a draw earlier this year, but this time the Russian fighter got off to a crazy start at UFC Belgrade against Borislav Nikolic.

He dropped UFC debutant “Zombee” early in the fight, then pinned him against the fence and controlled his neck while unloading a series of heavy knees until the Serbian fighter managed to break free.

Nikolic found his range after the first three minutes. He then made the most of his reach advantage, picking Vologdin apart with kicks and punches from the outside without stepping into the pocket or chasing his opponent.

However, the 26-year-old Russian fighter managed to end the first round on a high note by scoring a last-moment takedown.

Round 2 was another busy round with both fighters attempting takedowns in the opening 50 seconds, but they did not find any success. Vologdin ultimately scored another takedown, but it backfired as Nikolic, with a crazy scramble, escaped and secured top position real quick.

For the rest of the round, Nikolic controlled the pace and punished Vologdin with his jab, kicks, and one-twos. However, towards the end of Round 2, “Zombee” appeared gassed out, and the 26-year-old looked like the fresher fighter who had his moments before the second stanza could conclude.

Round 3 was by far the worst round for Mark Vologdin. He was dropped twice as the round began, survived multiple submission attempts, and absorbed serious damage before managing to escape.

Vologdin then scored a takedown, but it immediately backfired as the Serbian fighter reversed the position, regained top control, and bloodied him with ground-and-pound. Nikolic locked in a guillotine choke, but his Russian foe refused to tap.

Mark Vologdin showed incredible toughness as he endured heavy shots from the back mount and also while pinned against the fence. Despite the severe punishment, the 26-year-old managed to get back to his feet and, in the closing moments of the slugfest, escaped a rear-naked choke to somehow survive once more.

Official decision: Borislav Nikolic defeated Mark Vologdin by unanimous decision (29-27 x3) at UFC Belgrade.

UFC Belgrade: Mark Vologdin vs. Borislav Nikolic: Highlights

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.