The 39-year-old former middleweight and light heavyweight champion is scheduled to face Pavlovich in the co-main event of UFC 335. Pereira, who has been transitioning between weight classes, indicated that he would not persist in the heavyweight ranks if he fails to secure a victory.

Speaking ahead of the contest, the Brazilian fighter acknowledged the physical disparity between himself and the natural heavyweights in the division. He noted that he is currently lighter than most of his counterparts and would prefer to avoid repeatedly testing his strength against larger opponents.

Pereira remains focused on the immediate challenge posed by Pavlovich, a fighter known for his significant knockout power and aggressive forward pressure. Analysts suggest that the bout will be a tactical test of Pereira’s lateral movement against the striking prowess of the Russian contender.

The upcoming fight follows a challenging period for Pereira, who suffered a second-round technical knockout loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 in June. That defeat marked the second time in his UFC career that he has been stopped by knockout.

Despite the setback, Pereira has maintained his desire to compete at the highest level. He emphasized that while he is prepared for the possibility of a loss, he does not intend to retire from the sport entirely, suggesting a return to the light heavyweight division as a potential alternative.

The veteran fighter has also been vocal about his frustrations regarding matchmaking within the heavyweight category. He previously expressed a preference for different opponents, though he remains committed to the current assignment against Pavlovich.

In addition to his training, Pereira has recently commented on his relationship with veteran referee Herb Dean. Despite earlier public criticism following his loss to Gane, the fighter expressed sympathy for the official, noting that he dislikes seeing him subjected to persistent fan backlash.

Pereira’s career has been defined by his rapid ascent through the UFC ranks, having captured titles in two separate weight classes. His attempt to secure a third title at heavyweight remains a significant, albeit difficult, goal for the veteran.

The co-main event at UFC 335 is expected to be a pivotal moment for the heavyweight division, with both fighters looking to solidify their standing. The event will also feature Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes competing for the BMF title in the main event.

As the fight approaches, fans and pundits are closely watching how Pereira adjusts his approach to mitigate the size advantage of his opponent. His ability to utilize leg kicks and maintain distance will likely be critical to his success in the Octagon.

The broader landscape of the UFC continues to evolve, with various weight classes seeing shifts in leadership and contender status. Pereira’s decision to potentially move back to light heavyweight would undoubtedly impact the competitive dynamic of that division.

For now, the focus remains entirely on the upcoming clash. Pereira has expressed confidence in his preparation and his ability to overcome the challenges presented by Pavlovich, maintaining that he is fully prepared for the demands of the heavyweight division.

The UFC has yet to confirm further details regarding the full fight card for UFC 335, but the addition of the Pereira-Pavlovich bout has already generated significant interest among supporters of the sport.

As a former champion, Pereira’s movements are closely tracked by the MMA community. His transparency regarding his career trajectory provides clarity for fans who have speculated about his long-term plans in the sport.

The upcoming event serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of professional mixed martial arts, where a single result can significantly alter a fighter's path and strategic decisions for the future.

Pereira’s career record remains one of the most impressive in recent years, characterized by high-profile victories and a willingness to take on the most dangerous opponents available in the promotion.

Regardless of the outcome at UFC 335, Pereira’s legacy as a multi-weight champion is already established. His future decisions will be guided by his desire to remain competitive and his assessment of his physical capabilities.

The anticipation for the event continues to build as the date approaches. Both Pereira and Pavlovich are expected to arrive in peak physical condition for what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.

The MMA world will be watching closely to see if Pereira can bounce back from his recent loss and prove that he can successfully compete against the elite strikers of the heavyweight division.

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.

During that failed first title defense in the 205-pound division, Pereira managed to knock out Ankalaev in a blistering opening sequence that lasted a mere 80 seconds, allowing the hard-hitting striker to successfully recapture the Ultimate Fighting Championship light heavyweight crown.

Speaking out about the high-profile defeat in a recent interview with Bostanov MMA, the Russian contender made it abundantly clear that he believes the manner of his loss was entirely circumstantial rather than a reflection of a definitive technical superiority from his adversary.

Ankalaev expressed deep-seated frustration regarding how quickly the championship bout was brought to a halt, suggesting that external factors and unfair advantages played a pivotal role in the sudden and dramatic conclusion of their encounter inside the Octagon.

The Dagestani fighter went a step further by alleging that his opponent's coaching staff might have had prior knowledge regarding a physical ailment he was carrying into the contest, which supposedly influenced the unusually aggressive tactical approach that Pereira deployed right from the opening bell.

Detailing his perspective on the stoppage, Ankalaev stated that the unfinished business between the two elite athletes remains a major priority for him as he plots his next moves within the upper echelons of the mixed martial arts organization.

The fighter explained his thoughts directly by pointing out the unusual nature of the striking exchange, noting that no previous opponent in his entire professional career had ever rushed forward against him with such immediate and reckless intensity without prior awareness of a vulnerability.

Ankalaev remarked that the incident felt entirely uncharacteristic of a standard high-level championship fight, maintaining his stance that the decisive shot was a freak occurrence rather than a masterclass in calculated offensive striking.

Despite the setback suffered at UFC 320, Ankalaev has since attempted to rebuild his momentum within the light heavyweight division, most recently securing a statement technical knockout victory over Bogdan Guskov to prove his continued elite status and championship credentials.

That rebound performance served as a strong reminder of Ankalaev's formidable grappling and striking prowess, keeping him firmly in the conversation for future championship opportunities while the 205-pound belt itself has undergone subsequent turbulence in the weight class.

Alex Pereira, meanwhile, followed up his victory over Ankalaev by relinquishing the light heavyweight championship before making a high-stakes transition up to the heavyweight division in pursuit of unprecedented multi-weight divisional dominance under the promotional banner.

That heavyweight excursion encountered a significant obstacle when Pereira suffered a technical knockout defeat against top contender Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 while attempting to capture the prominent promotion's interim heavyweight belt.

Looking ahead to the immediate future, the Brazilian star is scheduled to make his high-profile return to the Octagon at UFC 335 in December, where he is booked to face imposing Russian powerhouse Sergei Pavlovich in a crucial heavyweight contender matchup.

That upcoming heavyweight clash is widely viewed by analysts and fans as a pivotal elimination bout that could determine the next challenger for the division's crown, highlighting Pereira's willingness to test himself against the biggest and most dangerous athletes on the entire roster.

Should Pereira experience difficulties in his ongoing heavyweight trajectory, ongoing industry speculation suggests that a potential return to the light heavyweight division could remain a viable option for the heavy-handed former champion if new challenges emerge.

Ankalaev has already seized upon that possibility, declaring his absolute readiness to welcome Pereira back to 205 pounds for a trilogy fight that would permanently settle their lingering grievances inside the cage once and for all.

The historical context of their rivalry adds considerable intrigue to any potential future meeting, given the contrasting fighting styles and the dramatic fashion in which their previous encounters have unfolded under the bright lights of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

As the global promotion's calendar moves forward with upcoming marquee events, the ongoing war of words between Ankalaev and Pereira ensures that the light heavyweight landscape remains charged with palpable tension and deeply personal narrative threads.

For now, Ankalaev must continue to focus on his own definitive path toward another title shot in the division, while Pereira prepares meticulously for the dangerous heavyweight test that awaits him at the end of the year in December.

The wider athletic community will undoubtedly monitor both competitors closely as they navigate their respective weight classes, with combat sports enthusiasts eagerly watching to see if a third chapter between these two fierce rivals eventually materializes in the near future.

Entering the bout as an underdog, Jasudavicius effectively neutralised Blanchfield’s reputation as a dangerous grappler. The Canadian dictated the pace throughout the contest, consistently finding success with her takedowns and maintaining control on the canvas to stifle any momentum from the American.

The opening round set the tone for the fight as Jasudavicius successfully took the action to the ground. After securing a takedown, she transitioned to Blanchfield’s back and locked in a body triangle, spending the majority of the frame hunting for a rear-naked choke.

Blanchfield managed to survive the initial onslaught, but the second round followed a similar narrative. Although Blanchfield attempted to initiate her own takedown, Jasudavicius defended well and eventually reversed the position, once again threatening with submission attempts during a series of scrambles.

In the final round, Blanchfield attempted to turn the tide by increasing her striking pressure. She forced the Canadian onto the back foot, but Jasudavicius remained composed, avoiding significant damage while managing the distance effectively.

With less than 90 seconds remaining in the fight, Jasudavicius secured a final, crucial takedown. By keeping Blanchfield on the mat for the remainder of the clock, she ensured her victory was confirmed by the judges at the conclusion of the three rounds.

Following the win, Jasudavicius expressed her desire to challenge the current division champion, Natalia Silva. The two fighters have a history, with Silva having defeated the Canadian by decision during their previous encounter in 2022.

Reflecting on the atmosphere at Rogers Place, Jasudavicius said, "To be able to fight in Canada, you hear the crowd, man. We're about it." She added that a rematch with Silva would represent an epic story for her career trajectory.

The victory marks a significant milestone for Jasudavicius, who has now won seven of her last eight UFC appearances. Her only loss during this impressive stretch came against Manon Fiorot in October 2025, and she is currently riding a two-fight winning streak.

For Blanchfield, the result is a setback in her pursuit of a title opportunity. Despite being considered one of the division's most promising prospects, she struggled to implement her game plan against the relentless pressure and grappling of the Canadian.

The event, officially titled UFC Fight Night 291, featured a full card of action at the Rogers Place arena in Edmonton, Alberta. The co-main event was widely anticipated as a potential title eliminator within the competitive women's flyweight division.

Jasudavicius’s performance has now firmly placed her in the conversation for high-profile matchups. While she has set her sights on a title shot against Silva, she remains one of several contenders, including established names like Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko.

The UFC’s return to Canada provided a platform for several fighters to showcase their skills. The card included a variety of bouts, with the main event featuring a welterweight clash between Mike Malott and Joaquin Buckley, further highlighting the depth of the evening's competition.

As the dust settles on the event, the focus shifts toward the future of the women's flyweight rankings. Jasudavicius’s ability to outwork a top-ranked opponent on home soil serves as a testament to her development and standing within the promotion.

The UFC has not yet confirmed the next steps for either fighter, but the post-fight callout from Jasudavicius has generated significant interest. The potential for a rematch with the champion will likely be a key talking point in the coming weeks.

Fans and analysts alike have praised the technical adjustments made by the Canadian throughout the fight. Her ability to transition between striking and grappling proved to be the deciding factor against a highly skilled opponent like Blanchfield.

The victory is arguably the most significant of Jasudavicius’s career to date. By defeating a high-ranked contender, she has demonstrated that she possesses the tools to compete at the very top level of the division.

The event concluded with a series of post-fight press conferences where athletes discussed their performances and future aspirations. The atmosphere in Edmonton remained electric throughout the night, reflecting the strong support for the Canadian contingent.

With her record now reflecting consistent success, Jasudavicius is well-positioned to demand a top-tier opponent for her next appearance. Her performance on Saturday night has undoubtedly increased her profile within the UFC’s hierarchy.

The focus for the division will now turn to the champion's next title defence. Whether the promotion opts to grant Jasudavicius her requested rematch or looks to other contenders remains to be seen in the upcoming fight announcements.