UFC 333 Breakdown: Analyzing Volkanovski vs. Evloev and Yan vs. Dvalishvili Title Fights in Abu Dhabi

UFC 333 is set to deliver two thrilling championship bouts at Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena, featuring high-stakes clashes where every tactical decision will dictate the outcome.

Volkanovski v Evloev

Alexander Volkanovski returns to Abu Dhabi on October 24, looking revitalized after a crucial recovery period. His previous visit three years ago ended in disappointment when he took an ill-advised short-notice rematch at 11 days’ notice against Islam Makhachev at UFC 294, stepping in for the injured Charles Oliveira. That resulted in a swift first-round knockout via a well-placed head kick. Four months later, Ilia Topuria ended Volkanovski’s reign as featherweight champion with a crunching right hook.

Many doubted the Australian's durability after such brutal knockouts, but Volkanovski took 14 months off to rest and recover. This reset led to two flawless, five-round distance performances against Diego Lopes, where he reclaimed and successfully defended the featherweight title vacated by Topuria's move to a higher division. Over 50 minutes, Volkanovski showcased a masterclass in distance management and striking.

His next challenger, Movsar Evloev, earned his title shot following a contentious win over Lerone Murphy in March. Holding a perfect 20-0 record with nine wins in the UFC since 2019, Evloev relies on a suffocating wrestling foundation. Though he surprisingly chose to stand and trade with Murphy—nearly costing him the fight before switching back to his grappling in Round 4—his body of work has undeniably earned him this championship opportunity.

Volkanovski aims to keep the fight standing, promising to test Evloev's cardio and force him into a grueling pace. Meanwhile, Evloev acknowledges the massive challenge ahead against the legend, having previously trained alongside the Australian, but remains fully prepared to capture the belt.

Yan v Dvalishvili

Petr Yan returns to Abu Dhabi holding the UFC bantamweight strap, facing a deeply familiar and daunting adversary. Yan (20-5) pulled off a major upset in 2025 by dethroning champion Merab Dvalishvili with consummate boxing, outstanding takedown defence, and devastating body shots to claim a unanimous decision.

Reflecting on their trilogy, Yan expressed confidence in his preparation and striking dominance. Dvalishvili, known as 'The Machine', admitted that taking the fight against Yan just two months after his grueling battle with Cory Sandhagen was a mistake that compromised his legendary cardio. With a full training camp and a well-rested gas tank, Dvalishvili enters this rematch determined to reclaim the throne, while Yan plans to rely on his sharp hands and elite defense to secure another victory.