UFC heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov has levelled sharp criticism at his upcoming opponent, Rizvan Kuniev, ahead of their scheduled encounter at UFC 333. The two Russian fighters are set to face off this Saturday, 24 October, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Volkov, currently ranked No. 4 in the division, expressed his views during media availability on Tuesday. The veteran fighter questioned the legitimacy of Kuniev's previous successes, specifically referencing his departure from the PFL in 2023 following a positive drug test.
Kuniev was suspended for one year by the Nevada Athletic Commission after testing positive for multiple banned substances, including drostanolone and boldenone, following a victory over Renan Ferreira. That result was subsequently overturned to a no-contest.
Addressing the upcoming bout, Volkov stated that he remains unfazed by his opponent's skillset. He suggested that Kuniev’s tactical approach would likely rely on grappling and clinching rather than striking, noting that he expects a predictable performance from the No. 5-ranked contender.
"I don't want to be telling the same things every fight, but he looks very similar to many of my opponents," Volkov told MMA Junkie. "He doesn't have many weapons to surprise me. I have more technical skills."
Volkov further remarked on the nature of their matchup, noting that he and Kuniev have previously shared training space. He suggested that Kuniev's past achievements were heavily influenced by the use of performance-enhancing substances, casting doubt on his ability to compete at the same level while clean.
"We realize that he was cut from PFL for using steroids, performance enhancing substances, so this was his success. I'm not sure he can fight with me without it, so I'm not worried," Volkov added during the interview.
Despite his pointed remarks, Volkov maintained that he holds personal respect for Kuniev. He clarified that his comments were prompted by the decision to accept the fight after their previous acquaintance, rather than personal animosity.
Volkov enters the contest with a strong recent record, having won six of his last seven bouts. His only recent defeat came in a closely contested fight against current UFC heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane, a result that remains a talking point among fans and analysts.
While some observers expected Volkov to be in line for a title challenge, he expressed satisfaction with his current activity level. He emphasised the importance of remaining active and securing fights, stating that he is not disappointed by the opportunity to compete.
"I'm not disappointed at the opportunity to earn some money. How am I going to be disappointed?" Volkov said when asked about his path to a potential title shot. He remains focused on securing a victory to bolster his standing in the division.
Kuniev has not recorded any issues with drug testing since joining the UFC in 2024. The upcoming heavyweight clash is part of a significant card at UFC 333, which also features high-profile championship bouts and a trilogy fight.
The main event of the evening will see UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski defend his title against the undefeated contender Movsar Evloev. The card is widely considered one of the most meaningful events in the promotion's 2026 calendar.
In addition to the heavyweight and featherweight bouts, UFC 333 features a highly anticipated trilogy fight between Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili. The event is expected to have significant implications for the rankings in multiple weight classes.
UFC 333 will be broadcast on Paramount+, with fans anticipating a high-stakes night of combat sports in the UAE. The event continues the UFC's long-standing tradition of hosting major fight cards in Abu Dhabi.
For Volkov, the fight represents a chance to prove his superiority in the heavyweight rankings. A win would further solidify his position as a top contender, regardless of the narrative surrounding his opponent's past.
The build-up to the event has been characterised by intense media scrutiny, with fighters participating in the 'Embedded' series to provide fans with behind-the-scenes access. The tension between Volkov and Kuniev has added an extra layer of interest to the heavyweight matchup.
As the fighters finalise their preparations, the focus shifts to the weigh-ins and the final pre-fight press conference. Both men are expected to make weight without issue before stepping into the octagon on Saturday.
The outcome of the Volkov-Kuniev bout will likely influence the trajectory of the heavyweight division as the year concludes. Both fighters are eager to make a statement and secure a prominent spot in the 2027 title picture.
With the event just days away, the atmosphere in Abu Dhabi is building. The card serves as a testament to the depth of the UFC roster and the global appeal of its marquee events.
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