Petr Yan expresses interest in moving up to 145lbs for title shot

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 6:09 AM

Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Summary

Petr Yan is considering a move to the featherweight division for a shot at dual championship glory. Ahead of his bantamweight title defense at UFC 333 against Merab Dvalishvili, Yan expressed interest in competing at 145lbs but emphasized he does not want to fight current champion Alexander Volkanovski due to their friendship. He indicated that while he sees value in pursuing the opportunity, he respects Volkanovski and does not wish to challenge him for the title. This statement adds a complex layer to Yan's future plans, particularly after he reclaimed the bantamweight title last year.

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By the Numbers
  • •Petr Yan defends his bantamweight title at UFC 333 against Merab Dvalishvili.
  • •Yan prefers not to fight Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title.
  • •Yan views a move up to 145lbs as interesting for his career.
  • •Volkanovski will defend his title against Movsar Evloev at UFC 333.
Latest Updates
  • 6:09 AMYahoo Sports — Petr Yan Wants to Move Up to 145lbs for Double-Champ Glory but Has One Major Condition
What they're saying
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Ahead of his UFC 333 title defense, Petr Yan has shown interest to fight for the 145lbs belt but does not wish to fight Alexander Volkanovski.

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