UFC 333 takes place on Saturday, October 24, at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, where featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski makes his 12th consecutive title defence against unbeaten Russian challenger Movsar Evloev.
The 38-year-old Australian champion would claim his ninth career title win in the division with a victory, surpassing the record previously held by Jose Aldo. Volkanovski rebounded from back-to-back losses to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria with two straight wins over Diego Lopes, restoring his position atop the division.
Evloev, undefeated at 20-0, is finally getting his first UFC title shot seven years after signing with the promotion. His record includes notable victories over Arnold Allen, Aljamain Sterling and Lerone Murphy.
Speaking to media ahead of the bout, Volkanovski said that although he is no longer the same athlete he was at 22, he believes he is performing at his best. He said he wants to finish the fight quickly, partly as an anniversary gift to his wife Emma during fight week, but acknowledged Evloev's wrestling advantage will be central to how the fight unfolds.
Evloev said he is mentally prepared to become champion. The bout marks the latest in a string of major combat-sports events hosted in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the UAE capital's standing as a global hub for elite fight cards.