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Petr Yan says he discussed politics with Merab Dvalishvili shortly after their five-round title fight.

Yan retained his Ultimate Fighting Championship bantamweight championship in their trilogy bout at UFC 333 on Saturday at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The champion said they exchanged words of respect after their Fight of the Night-winning encounter before briefly discussing political issues.

Petr Yan discusses his postfight exchange with Merab Dvalishvili after their UFC 333 trilogy bout Dvalishvili took an early lead before Yan rallied over the final three rounds to win a unanimous decision. All three judges scored the fight 48-47 for the champion.

Before the fight, Yan said their contrasting personalities would prevent them from becoming friends. Nevertheless, the two shook hands afterward. Yan declined to elaborate on their political discussion, though he expects microphones near the Octagon captured the exchange and that the audio will eventually become public. Read more

Farid Basharat appreciates Dana White clarifying his comments about the bantamweight’s departure from the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Basharat (16-0) left the UFC after his contract expired without renewal, despite going unbeaten in the promotion. When initially asked about the departure, White suggested there could have been difficulties dealing with UFC matchmakers. Basharat denied ever turning down a fight and warned that such suggestions could damage his reputation.

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Dana White says his UFC departure comments were not aimed at undefeated Farid Basharat White subsequently said his remarks were not directed specifically at Basharat, explaining that he had been discussing general reasons fighters might leave the promotion. The UFC CEO said he had no personal or professional issues with Basharat and had not intended to harm his career.

White expressed confidence that Basharat would sign elsewhere given his unbeaten record. He also left open the …

Islam Makhachev believes an interim title fight will clarify the next challenger for his welterweight championship.

Makhachev had been expected to defend his Ultimate Fighting Championship title against Carlos Prates at UFC 336 in January 2027. Instead, Prates will face Michael Morales for the interim belt. The reigning champion supports having the two contenders meet before challenging him.

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Islam Makhachev backs Carlos Prates vs. Michael Morales to determine his next welterweight challenger Makhachev (29-1) pointed to Prates’ defeat against Ian Garry, whom he beat in August.

The Russian also questioned whether Morales (19-0), who has not competed since November 2025, should receive a title shot without another fight. He believes a matchup between Morales and Prates (24-7) will establish the next challenger.

“Prates and Morales will fight to determine who is a true worthy contender,” Makhachev told Pound4Padel. “And I will fight [the winner].…