Best Michael Volkov Podcasts (2025)

1
Tom Aspinall’s Big Announcement! Plus Ian Machado Garry Calls Out Khamzat Chimaev! 50:59

1d ago50:59

50:59

Fans are so frustrated with the Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall saga that they’ve started signing a petition to strip Jones of his UFC title. But I still believe the fight is going to happen. Plus, Aspinall teased some big news today — I’ll tell you what it was. Then, a lot of fighters are suddenly talking about their legacies, and I need to weigh in. A…

1
Conor McGregor Wants to Buy OnlyFans?! Plus, the Nate Diaz Brawl Video and Will Paddy Fight Tsarukyan Next? 1:16:37

5d ago1:16:37

1:16:37

Nate Diaz was in a brawl in Thailand? I react to that video, plus I tell you why I believe Diaz is totally serious when he hints about returning to the UFC. And Conor McGregor says he's in serious talks to buy OnlyFans, but I don't believe him. Plus, Arman Tsarukyan apparently likes the idea of fighting Paddy Pimblett. I like the matchup as well, b…

1
Anti-Corruption Update with Scott Greytak, Transparency International and Josh Birenbaum, Foundation for Defense of Democracies 40:35

6d ago40:35

40:35

What happens when the world’s most influential anti-bribery law is abruptly paused? Is transparency merely a compliance box-tick—or the most powerful tool we have against global threats like kleptocracy, sanctions evasion, and illicit finance? In this eye-opening episode of Corruption, Crime, and Compliance, Michael Volkov is joined by two powerhou…

1
I Called Islam Makhachev a Coward?! Plus, I'm Enjoying Jon Jones Trolling Us 59:32

9d ago59:32

59:32

Could Ilia Topuria become the UFC’s first three-division champion? His brother thinks so, and I tell you whether I think thats even possible. Then, my reaction to the news that Topuria has left his gym and longtime team. And, there’s a very real rivalry between Paddy Pimblett and Topuria—and somehow, some way, we need to see that fight. Also, you a…

1
Islam Makhachev Ran From Ilia Topuria! Plus, Is Jon Jones the Biggest Troll in UFC History? 43:11

12d ago43:11

43:11

Is Jon Jones the biggest troll in UFC history? I begin with that. Then, with no news on a light heavyweight title rematch coming, I'm wondering if Alex Pereira actually wants the fight against Magomed Ankalaev. And after last week's slew of fight announcements, do we think Paddy Pimblett could face Ilia Topuria after the Spaniard fights Oliveira? A…

1
Stepping Into the Enforcement Spotlight -- Customs and Border Patrol and Import Enforcement 15:24

12d ago15:24

15:24

What if your next import shipment becomes the centre of a federal enforcement action — not because of criminal intent, but because of a mistake? In today’s episode, Michael Volkov breaks down the expanding power and reach of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) and what it means for businesses navigating an increasingly aggressive trade enforce…

1
Islam Makhachev's Quest For a Second Belt, Chimaev Favored Over DDP, and Ariel Helwani Is WRONG! 36:59

16d ago36:59

36:59

On today’s episode, I begin by explaining what Ariel Helwani is misunderstanding about Islam Makhachev's move to 170 lbs. Then, Khamzat Chimaev is favored to beat Dricus du Plessis -- should he be? And Valentina Shevchenko has responded to my criticism! Plus, people are blaming Jon Jones, but there’s still no evidence that he’s the one holding up t…

1
UFC 315 Reaction: Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev Next? Plus, My Problem With The Bullet! 1:03:36

19d ago1:03:36

1:03:36

With Jack Della Maddalena’s win over Belal Muhammad, the door is now open for Islam Makhachev to move up and challenge JDM. On today's podcast, I talk about whether Makhachev deserves an immediate title shot, and what this fight would mean for the future of lightweight and welterweight. Then, after watching her defeat Manon Fiorit, I tell you about…

1
LRN's 2025 Compliance Program Effectiveness Report 11:37

19d ago11:37

11:37

Are you running a compliance program that’s making a real impact—or just checking the boxes? In this episode, Michael Volkov dives into LRN’s 2025 Program Effectiveness Report, an annual benchmark that separates the truly impactful compliance programs from those that are merely operational. Based on insights from 1,500 global ethics and compliance …

1
Magomed Ankalaev Hacked Alex Pereira?! And Has Islam Makhachev Earned a 170 Lb. Title Shot? 47:18

23d ago47:18

47:18

It's the eve of UFC 315, but fresh off of my trip to Iowa, I begin with some stories from my visit to the University of Iowa’s wrestling practice. Then, I tell you why it isn't time to derail the Bo Nickal hype train just yet. Plus, why Ian Machado Garry is wrong for saying Islam Makhachev deserves a welterweight title shot. Also, Alex Pereira clai…

1
UFC Des Moines Recap: Is Bo Nickal Overrated?! Plus, JDM Faces No Pressure at UFC 315 1:00:49

26d ago1:00:49

1:00:49

UFC Des Moines is in the books, and I break down Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal—including whether it’s fair to call Nickal overrated, how high de Ridder should climb in the rankings after his win, and my issue with Nickal's approach. Also, what's next for Cory Sandhagen after defeating Deiveson Figueiredo? Then, Charles Oliveira’s coach says Olive…

1
Global Anti-Corruption Round Up 12:10

26d ago12:10

12:10

When The United States has hit pause on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) enforcement—it left many asking whether Europe will now be stepping up to lead the global anti-corruption charge. In this episode of Corruption, Crime and Compliance, Michael Volkov explores how European prosecutors are responding to the enforcement gap, why multinational …

1
Eddie Hearn: The UFC Is In a Recession! Plus, UFC Des Moines and My Issue with Islam Makhachev 1:14:21

30d ago1:14:21

1:14:21

On today’s episode, I tell you why I have a problem with Islam Makhachev basing his future on the outcome of Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena. And for everyone doubting Kamaru Usman ... have you forgotten who Kamaru Usman is? Then, I look ahead to Bo Nickal vs. Reinier de Ridder this weekend at UFC Des Moines, but apparently, Nickal weighed …

1
Ian Machado Garry's Impressive Win, Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3 Reaction, and Israel Adesanya Training With David Goggins?! 1:00:06

1M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

With UFC Kansas City in the books, Ian Machado Garry’s win over Carlos Prates has earned him the spot as the backup fighter for UFC 315. I'll tell you why Machado Garry still concerns me, and what I make of Joaquin Buckley's appearance at his weigh-in. Then, Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3 is set for UFC 318 in a battle for the BMF title (which I…

1
DOJ Issues Data Security Program Requirements 19:17

1M ago19:17

19:17

Could your routine data transfers now violate federal law? The DOJ’s new Data Security Program (DSP) targets the flow of U.S. sensitive personal and government data to foreign adversaries — and the clock is ticking. In this episode of Corruption, Crime and Compliance, Michael Volkov breaks down the Justice Department’s sweeping new Data Security Pr…

1
Tom Aspinall Is Fighting Ciryl Gane!? Plus, I Know Islam Makhachev's Next Fight 1:00:38

1M ago1:00:38

1:00:38

On today’s episode, I break the news that Tom Aspinall will face Ciryl Gane — not Jon Jones — for the for the interim heavyweight title (again). Then, a trusted source tells me that Justin Gaethje will get the next shot at Islam Makhachev, not Ilia Topuria. And, Dricus Du Plessis broke his silence on Twitter, telling the public that he has a fight …

1
Paddy Pimblett Gained 40 Lbs. After UFC 314! Plus, Tom Aspinall’s Been “Sworn to Secrecy?" 46:09

1M ago46:09

46:09

Paddy Pimblett reportedly gained 40 pounds after his UFC 314 win?! On today's episode, I break down how that’s even possible. Then, I explain why I'm uncomfortable with the conversation around Conor McGregor’s alleged cocaine use. And, I’ve got an update on Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall, including Aspinall saying he’s been “sworn to secrecy." Also, if…

1
[Replay] Four Sanctions Cases That Everyone Should Know 21:06

1M ago21:06

21:06

How prepared is your organization to handle the evolving landscape of sanctions compliance? In this episode of Corruption, Crime and Compliance, Michael Volkov dives into critical sanctions compliance cases and their implications for global companies. He discusses four significant cases that underscore the necessity of robust compliance programs, p…

1
Why Islam Makhachev Needs to Fight Ilia Topuria! Plus, Is Paddy the Baddy Really THAT Good? 57:38

1M ago57:38

57:38

On today's episode, I break down the confusing lightweight title picture, and explain why I think Islam Makhachev needs to fight Ilia Topuria. Then, some people are discrediting Paddy Pimblett’s win last weekend by saying Michael Chandler just isn’t that good anymore — I’ll give you my take. Next, I might have to walk back what I said about Alexand…

1
UFC 314 Reaction: Paddy the Baddy a Win Away From Title Shot! Plus, What’s Next for Alexander Volkanovski? 39:19

2M ago39:19

39:19

I’m back from UFC 314! And after Alexander Volkanovski won the vacant featherweight title over Diego Lopes, Movsar Evloev called him out for a title shot — but I don’t see that matchup as main event material. Then, following his impressive win over Michael Chandler, people are wondering if Paddy Pimblett could become an even bigger star than Conor …

1
Five Strategies to Mitigate a New Risk Environment 13:25

2M ago13:25

13:25

What do you do when the headlines shift faster than your risk matrix can keep up? In this episode, Michael Volkov dives into the challenge of adapting compliance programs in the face of volatile and fast-changing global risks—from tariffs and trade controls to supply chain disruptions and third-party exposures. While the pressure to react is consta…

1
UFC 314 Preview: Are We Underestimating Alexander Volkanovski? Plus, Who Will Paddy the Baddy Call Out With a Win? 45:28

2M ago45:28

45:28

On today’s episode, I introduce you to the newest addition to the UFC: Aaron Pico! Then, I went back and rewatched Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili, and I think it was a lot closer than you might remember. Also, my reaction to Carlos Prates smoking four cigarettes at once—is it just for attention, or is there a real problem here? Then, as we gea…

1
My Official Prediction for Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes! Plus, Does Paddy the Baddy Have an Advantage Over Michael Chandler? 47:13

2M ago47:13

47:13

On today’s episode, Ben Askren says Sean O’Malley made a huge mistake accepting a rematch with Merab Dvalishvili—but I’ll tell you where I disagree, and what’s going to be different this time around. Then, after spending plenty of time trying to figure out the right next opponent for Ilia Topuria, I’m turning the question over to the listeners—who …

1
[Replay] Nicolas Garcia, GC at Orica, on Compliance Trends and Challenges in Latin America 32:36

2M ago32:36

32:36

This week we are pleased to bring you one of our most popular episodes of 2024. Please enjoy, and we will be back next week with more insights from the Corruption, Crime, and Compliance podcast. How can companies build trust and drive growth in a region as politically and economically volatile as Latin America? In this episode, Nicolas Garcia - Vic…

1
The Merab Vs. Suga' Show Rematch! Plus, Alexander Volkanovski's Uncertain Future and Ask Uncle Chael! 1:10:25

2M ago1:10:25

1:10:25

On today’s episode, I tell you why I love the booking of Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O'Malley 2, and why I think it'll be different this time around. Then, I talk about Ian Machado Garry's decision to step in on short notice against Carlos Prates, and why I believe it's a massive fight for each guy. Meanwhile, Mateusz Gamrot says he's the backup fig…

1
Ilia Topuria Says the UFC Promised Him a Title Fight?! But I Want to See Oliveira vs. Topuria First! 1:03:43

2M ago1:03:43

1:03:43

On today’s episode, it's clearer now more than ever that Conor McGregor's time is done with the UFC. Then, Ilia Topuria claims the UFC has promised him a lightweight title fight -- do I believe that? And, both Topuria and Charles Oliveira want a crack at Islam Makhachev next—but I'd rather see Oliveira vs. Topuria for the No. 1 contender fight. Els…

1
[Replay] Carlos Villagran Discusses Rebuilding a Corporate Culture After a Corporate Crisis 48:38

2M ago48:38

48:38

This week, we are pleased to bring you one of our most popular episodes of 2024. Please enjoy, and we will be back next week with more insights from the Corruption, Crime, and Compliance podcast. Carlos Villagrán is the Director of Compliance at CMPC, a 100-year-old Chilean-based holding company, one of the worldwide leading pulp, paper, packaging,…

1
Alex Pereira Says I Have “No Chama”!? Plus, My Interview With Charles Oliveira! 1:18:14

2M ago1:18:14

1:18:14

Fresh off defeating Leon Edwards at UFC London, I’m wondering if a title shot is next for Sean Brady. Then, my rare interview with Charles Oliveira (translated by Gabriel Checco) where we discuss what’s really going on between Oliveira and Ilia Topuria. Plus, I explain why I agree with Oliveira’s claim that he deserves a shot at Islam Makhachev’s t…

1
Tom Aspinall Tells Jon Jones: “Fight Me or Retire!” Plus, Conor McGregor for President of Ireland? 33:46

2M ago33:46

33:46

On today’s episode, Tom Aspinall says Jon Jones needs to either fight him or retire, which leads me to remind you that Jones hasn’t actually turned down the fight. Then, Conor McGregor says he wants to run for Ireland's highest political offer, while also hinting at a UFC return. I'll tell you why I think it's possible he can do both. Plus, BKFC's …

1
[Replay] The Boeing Plea Agreement 22:55

2M ago22:55

22:55

This week we are pleased to bring you one of our most popular episodes of 2024. Please enjoy, and we will be back next week with more insights from the Corruption, Crime, and Compliance podcast. Have you heard of the recent controversies around Boeing 737 MAX and its safety? Have you wondered what is being done about the concerns around it? In this…

1
Jon Jones Is "Just Another Bum in the Shower?!" Plus, UFC London Preview and Will We Get Gaethje vs. Poirier 3? 59:46

2M ago59:46

59:46

On today’s episode, Jon Jones wants six months to prepare for Tom Aspinall, but what exactly does he mean by that? Plus, Aspinall’s father is furious with Jones' request, and I'll explain why the UFC won't consider any of his concerns. Then, Dricus Du Plessis is thanking Magomed Ankalaev for taking away what he calls “the biggest payday of my life.…

1
Should Justin Gaethje Fight Islam Makhachev Next? Plus, Paddy Pimblett's Chances at UFC 314 28:02

2M ago28:02

28:02

On today’s episode, Arman Tsarukyan is dismissing Paddy Pimblett, but I'll tell you why it's really a compliment in disguise. Then, Jon Anik suggested says Justin Gaethje should be next in line for Islam Makhache ... is he right? Plus, Rafael Fiziev wants to move to 145 lbs., and I’ll tell you why history shows that move wouldn't do him any favors.…

1
[Replay] Natalie Druckman from Certa on AI-Enhanced Third-Party Risk Management 31:18

3M ago31:18

31:18

This week we are pleased to bring you one of our most popular episodes of 2024. Please enjoy, and we will be back next week with more insights from the Corruption, Crime, and Compliance podcast. How do you manage risk when the vulnerabilities are outside your organization aren’t in your hands? In this episode of Corruption, Crime, and Compliance, w…

1
UFC 313 Reaction: What Went Wrong For Alex Pereira? Plus, Tom Aspinall Confirms Fight With Jon Jones Is On! 52:13

3M ago52:13

52:13

On today’s episode, I break down down everything I saw Saturday night at UFC 313 in Las Vegas. I have plenty to say about Magomed Ankalaev’s win over Alex Pereira, and why Ankalaev deserves full credit for his performance. And what the heck happened to Pereira? Then, Justin Gaethje’s victory over Rafael Fiziev showed me just how tough Gaethje reall…

1
[Replay] Review of the EU Whistleblowing Directive with Alex Cotoia and Daniela Melendez 25:00

3M ago25:00

25:00

This week, we bring you a replay of one of our most impactful podcasts from last year, featuring Alex Cotoia and Daniela Melendez. Listen in as we discuss the EU Whistleblower Directive of October 2019. We'll return next week with one of our regular updates. Directive 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and Council dated 23 October 2019 on the “pr…

1
Why Alexander Volkanovski Thinks Alex Pereira Will KNOCK OUT Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313! 53:11

3M ago53:11

53:11

On today’s episode, I get you ready for this weekend's UFC 313 showdown in Las Vegas. I’ve witnessed some training sessions up close and personal and I have to say ... Alex Pereira’s preparation is something special. And while I’m hesitant to choose a winner in the main event, Alexander Volkanovski makes no hesitation with his. I'm also liking what…

1
Alex Pereira 22 Pounds Overweight!? Plus, Justin Gaethje an Underdog Against Rafael Fiziev 59:39

3M ago59:39

59:39

On today’s episode, I dive into Alex Pereira coming into fight week 22 pounds overweight, and why I’d love to see him make the move to heavyweight after UFC 313. Then, Justin Gaethje is the betting underdog against Rafael Fiziev—does that surprise you? I also have no reason to believe Dustin Poirier will hang up the gloves any time soon based on th…

1
Ethics and Compliance Trends for 2025 18:31

3M ago18:31

18:31

Is your company prepared for the compliance storm ahead? With tariffs shaking global trade, aggressive sanctions enforcement, and new risks from AI, businesses must rethink their strategies. Can your compliance program keep up, or will it be left scrambling? In this episode of Corruption, Crime, and Compliance, Michael Volkov unpacks the rapidly sh…

1
Rafael Fiziev Steps in Vs. Justin Gaethje at UFC 313! Plus, Francis Ngannou “Wasn’t That Confident” Against Tyson Fury 41:56

3M ago41:56

41:56

On today’s episode, Rafael Fiziev steps up on short notice to replace Dan Hooker at UFC 313 against Justin Gaethje. While Fiziev said yes, Gaethje is also revealing the names that said no - including Dustin Poirier. Then, I tell you why it was a dirty move for Chris Eubank Jr. to slap Conor Benn in the face with an egg. Plus, Francis Ngannou admits…

1
UFC Seattle Reaction! Plus, Charles Oliveira Won’t Fight Ilia Topuria? 42:51

3M ago42:51

42:51

On today’s episode, I look back at UFC Seattle. Why does Brendan Allen keep losing, and how can he get back on track? Then, I give my take on the eye poke that led to the unceremonious end to Song Yadong's defeat of Henry Cejudo, and I tell you how I think the UFC should I’ll share my thoughts on how the UFC should handle eye pokes. And how the hec…

1
Updating Your Risk Priorities for the New Trump Administration 15:04

3M ago15:04

15:04

Are You Ready for the Next Wave of Corporate Risk? Corporate risks are shifting, and every board, C-suite, and compliance team must take a fresh look at their risk landscape. While some risks like cybersecurity, data privacy, and artificial intelligence remain high priorities, others—such as anti-corruption and antitrust enforcement—are evolving in…

1
Ilia Topuria Vacates Featherweight Title! Is Islam Makhachev Next? Plus, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes Set For UFC 314 43:41

3M ago43:41

43:41

On today’s episode, I react to a slew of breaking news! Ilia Topuria has vacated his featherweight title, and I explain why I respect him for making the move. Then, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes will fight for vacant belt, and I tell you what excites me most about this fight. Also, with Shavkat Rakhmonov unable to fight at UFC 315, I give m…

1
Gilbert Burns Leaked My Phone Number! 49:17

3M ago49:17

49:17

On today’s episode, I return to mid-December when Gilbert Burns gave me an early Christmas present by posting my phone number online because I claimed he was retired. So, I take your calls and texts (while learning how to group-FaceTime) and try to figure out whether Burns is retired, and what his next matchup should be if he isn’t. To support this…

1
Trump Administration Hits Pause on FCPA Enforcement 17:23

3M ago17:23

17:23

What happens when an entire era of anti-corruption enforcement is put on pause? Is this a strategic move to bolster American businesses or a dangerous rollback of corporate accountability? In an unprecedented move, the Trump administration has hit the brakes on FCPA enforcement for at least 180 days, citing concerns over U.S. economic competitivene…

1
Stipe Miocic: Francis Ngannou Would Beat Jon Jones! Plus, Nate Diaz Back to the UFC? 42:43

4M ago42:43

42:43

On today’s episode, I talk about Eric Nicksick's criticism of Sean Strickland’s “uninspiring” performance at UFC 312. Then, Nate Diaz called me, and he told me he wants back with the UFC. Plus, Stipe Miocic claims Francis Ngannou would beat Jon Jones, but does the MMA math back him up? And finally, Dana White gets challenged by the Pillow Fighting …

1
Should Dricus du Plessis Have Called Out Someone Else After UFC 312? Plus, My Dominick Cruz Story! 32:49

4M ago32:49

32:49

On today’s episode, I recap UFC 312, and I tell you why I’m pumping the brakes on calling Zhang Weili the best fighter in the UFC following her impressive win over Tatiana Suarez. Plus, just how good is Dricus du Plessis after his dominant over Sean Strickland? And with DDP's callout of Alex Pereira after the fight, I can't help but wonder whether …

1
Family International and Owner Pay $1.07 Million to Settle Violations of Russia Sanctions Program 10:41

4M ago10:41

10:41

How do sanctioned Russian oligarchs continue to move their wealth despite international restrictions? The answer lies in real estate, shell companies, and complicit gatekeepers. In this episode of Corruption, Crime, and Compliance, Michael Volkov dives into one of the latest OFAC enforcement actions against Family International and its owner, Roman…

1
UFC 312 Preview! Plus, Israel Adesanya Should Retire and Kevin Lee's Leaked Training Footage 54:53

4M ago54:53

54:53

On today’s episode, I break down why now is the perfect time for Israel Adesanya to retire. Then, I give my thoughts on Conor McGregor spitting on a fan in Las Vegas after getting taunted. Plus, whoever leaked Kevin Lee’s training footage owes him an apology. And why is Ilia Topuria so eager to fight Islam Makhachev? Then, the UFC 312 press confere…

1
UFC Saudi Arabia Reaction! Plus, Did Khabib Nurmagomedov Give Conor McGregor PTSD and Ruin His Life? 47:32

4M ago47:32

47:32

On today’s episode, I react to what we saw this past weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia, including my issue with Michael ‘Venom’ Page being the underdog in his win over Shara ‘Bullet’ Magomedov, and why I don’t envy the position that Israel Adesanya finds himself in after losing to Nassourdine Imavov. Plus, Dana White said he will explore other options if…

1
The New Era of Compliance -- Generative AI, Data and Innovation 16:02

4M ago16:02

16:02

The 1990s saw the explosion of the internet, transforming the global economy and social development in ways we could have never imagined. But will AI truly have the same impact? While its potential is undeniable, the road ahead is full of risks, challenges, and ethical concerns. Will AI drive efficiency and innovation, or will it create new vulnera…

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Michael Volkov Podcasts

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