Volkanovski acknowledges Evloev’s Strengths but dismisses threat to title

The UFC returns to Abu Dhabi on Saturday for UFC 333, promising an action-packed night of world-class mixed martial arts as some of the sport’s biggest names step into the Octagon.

The highly anticipated event will be headlined by a blockbuster championship doubleheader, featuring featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski defending his title against undefeated top-ranked contender Movsar Evloev, while the co-main event will see bantamweight champion Petr Yan face off against No. 1-ranked contender Merab Dvalishvili in a highly anticipated trilogy bout.

The 38-year-old Volkanovski (28-4 MMA), is unfazed by Evloev’s momentum or the age difference between them.

“I believe I’ve seen that (wrestling) puzzle before,” the Australian champion said Thursday, referring to Evloev’s style.

“But he’s undefeated. He’s undefeated. He knows how to win. But I just don’t think that’s enough. He’s got all the skills. He can take it anywhere. He’s the most well-rounded (fighter), but I just don’t believe that’s enough for me. I’m gonna go get my hand raised. ‘And still (champion),’ once again."

Evloev, 32, brushed off the 145-pound champion’s comments. “He’s the best featherweight in (UFC) history, and everybody knows that, right?” Evloev said. “I’m here to check for myself and do all I can to get to this point this Saturday.”

In the co-main event, a bantamweight title trilogy will reach its conclusion as reigning champion Yan (20-5 MMA) of Russia looks to make it two consecutive victories over former champion Merab Dvalishvili of Georgia, 10 months after their previous meeting at UFC 323.

Injuries to both fighters delayed their rematch until now. Dvalishvili, who defended his title last October with a victory over Cory Sandhagen, said he feels vindicated fighting in Abu Dhabi, where much of the crowd is expected to favor Yan.

“This is my territory,” Dvalishvili said with a laugh. “I love Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi loves me. Let’s go. Bro, I’m the king. Wherever I fight, people always (support) me. I love the people. They love me. They support me, and I’m grateful for that. I will die in a fight for what I do. I’m grateful for all the fans, all the people. I’m just gonna fight hard. That’s why. Don’t blink Saturday. Make sure to watch our fight. It’s gonna be good.”

Yan, meanwhile, said he feels at home in Abu Dhabi and appreciates the support he has received from local fans.

“Guys, Abu Dhabi is the best place,” he said. “I remember, in 2020, when I came here and took my belt with Jose Aldo (at UFC 251), and I already defended my title here (at UFC 267 in 2021). On Oct. 24, I will smash this guy one more time.”

IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK IN ABU DHABI, says White: UFC Ceo Dana White joined four of the sport’s biggest stars at Etihad Arena on Thursday for the official press conference.

White welcomed UFC’s return to the UAE capital, telling the crowd: “It’s good to be back here in Abu Dhabi.”

The press conference also delivered several light-hearted moments, including an unexpected interaction with heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov, who is also in action on Saturday’s main card against compatriot Rizvan Kuniev.

Stepping up from the audience, Volkov playfully asked Volkanovski for advice on becoming a world champion before turning to White to ask what he needed to do to earn a UFC title shot.

The event ended on another memorable note when a fan asked White if he would shave his head in exchange for tickets to Saturday’s event. White had another idea: “How about I just give you tickets and not shave your head?” The fan quickly accepted before the four title fighters came together for their final face-offs.