Volkanovski and Yan Retain Championships at UFC 333

Alexander Volkanovski defended his featherweight title with a second-round finish of Movsar Evloev at UFC 333.

Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski successfully defended his title at UFC 333, defeating the previously unbeaten Movsar Evloev via a second-round stoppage. Following the victory, Volkanovski may return to the lightweight division, where two of his three career UFC losses occurred. ESPN reports a potential matchup against BMF champion Charles Oliveira in 2027, provided Oliveira defeats Diego Lopes at UFC 335 in December. Alternatively, Volkanovski could face Arman Tsarukyan for the 155-pound title if Justin Gaethje does not return to competition.

In the bantamweight main card, Petr Yan retained his belt by defeating Merab Dvalishvili via unanimous decision. This victory concluded a trilogy between the two fighters and marked Dvalishvili’s second consecutive loss. Yan is expected to face either Sean O'Malley, who holds a 2022 victory over him, or Song Yadong. O'Malley recently secured a knockout of Aiemann Zahabi and a win over Song, while Song is noted for a one-shot knockout of Umar Nurmagomedov.

Other potential matchups following the event include a rematch between Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov, who previously fought at UFC 311. Featherweight prospect Aaron Pico, coming off a win over Patricio Pitbull, is linked to a possible bout against Jean Silva. Additionally, Movsar Evloev may face Pat Sabatini or Steve Garcia as he looks to rebound from his first professional defeat.