Petr Yan Expects a Wrestling-Heavy Merab at UFC 333

Petr Yan Expects a Wrestling-Heavy Merab at UFC 333

Petr Yan believes Merab Dvalishvili could change his approach when they meet for the third time at UFC 333 this weekend. With their rivalry level at one win apiece, Yan expects the former champion to rely more heavily on wrestling in a bid to reclaim the bantamweight title.

“I think this time around, he’s going to try to be more of a wrestler and try to wrestle,” Yan told MMA Junkie through a Russian-language interpreter. Yan also stressed that ending the trilogy and defending his belt remain his priorities, especially as discussions about his place among the sport’s greatest fighters continue.

Despite being considered a slight favourite, Yan knows Dvalishvili remains a dangerous opponent. The champion also said he was ready to face whoever the UFC selects next, but his immediate focus is settling the rivalry and retaining his title.