UFC 333 Weigh-Ins: Volkanovski and Evloev Make Weight as Caliari Misses Mark

Key points

• Alexander Volkanovski (144.5 lbs) and Movsar Evloev (145 lbs) made weight for their featherweight title fight at UFC 333.
• Preliminary card fighter Nicolle Caliari missed the strawweight limit by 4.5 pounds, facing a 30% purse penalty and a catchweight bout against Iasmin Lucindo.
• Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili both weighed in at 135 lbs for their bantamweight title trilogy rematch.
• The event takes place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, with the main card airing at 2 p.m. ET on Paramount+.
• Evloev, who is undefeated at 20-0, aims for his first stoppage victory in the UFC, while Volkanovski seeks to extend his title reign.

Background

UFC 333 is a doubleheader title event in Abu Dhabi, featuring two championship bouts. The featherweight title fight between Volkanovski and Evloev has been a long time coming, with Evloev waiting years for his title opportunity. The bantamweight division also sees a significant clash between Yan and Dvalishvili, with historical stakes for both fighters. The event's early US time slot is due to Gulf Standard Time.

How outlets are covering it

MMA Junkie reported on the weigh-in results, noting that only one preliminary fighter missed weight. UFC.com highlighted Evloev's confidence and his goal to finish Volkanovski. Sherdog analyzed the historical implications of the title fights, suggesting that a win could strengthen Volkanovski's and Yan's claims to being the greatest in their divisions. ESPN's source was unavailable due to a 403 error.

Why it matters

UFC 333 features two title fights with significant historical implications. A win for Volkanovski could solidify his place as the greatest featherweight, while a win for Yan or Dvalishvili could reshape the bantamweight division's hierarchy. The event also tests the patience and preparation of fighters like Evloev, who has waited years for his title shot.

What to watch

The main card of UFC 333 airs at 2 p.m. ET on Paramount+ on October 24, 2026. The preliminary card begins at 10 a.m. ET. The event will determine the new champions in the featherweight and bantamweight divisions, with potential implications for future title fights and divisional rankings.