Retired lightweight Paul Felder steps in for Joe Rogan as the UFC color commentator for the upcoming pay-per-view event.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship is heading to the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi this Saturday, October 24, 2026, for a massive international fight card. Because veteran broadcaster Joe Rogan does not travel overseas for international events, the promotion needed a fresh voice for the broadcast booth.
Stepping up to fill the coveted role is retired lightweight fighter Paul Felder, who will join regular play-by-play announcer Jon Anik and analyst Daniel Cormier. Felder brings extensive broadcasting experience to the desk, having previously called multiple Fight Night events at the Meta Apex facility, according to information published by mmamania.
This major commentary shakeup comes as part of a broader broadcast team restructuring for the upcoming pay-per-view event. Fans tuning into the broadcast will experience a revamped commentary lineup while watching high-stakes world championship bouts.
UFC 333 Broadcast Team and Analysts
In addition to the main commentary booth featuring Jon Anik, Daniel Cormier, and Paul Felder, the organization announced several other key broadcast assignments. Brendan Fitzgerald will join former middleweight champion Din Thomas at the analyst desk.
Meanwhile, John Gooden will handle backstage reporting duties, stepping into a role typically filled by Megan Olivi. Veteran ring announcer Bruce Buffer will continue his traditional duties, managing fighter walkouts and official results inside the arena.
Main Card Highlights and Championship Fights
The upcoming international fight card features high-profile championship matchups that are generating massive interest across digital news portals. In the main event, featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski puts his title on the line against contender Movsar Evloev.
Volkanovski has stated his intention to finish the challenger in impressive fashion. The co-main event features a high-stakes bantamweight title rubber match where Petr Yan defends his belt against former champion Merab Dvalishvili.
Paul Felder Broadcasting Career
Known during his active fighting days as The Irish Dragon, Felder officially stepped away from mixed martial arts competition after his Fight of the Night battle against Rafael dos Anjos at UFC Vegas 14 in late 2020.
Since retiring from active competition, Felder has successfully transitioned into a prominent media role. His deep technical knowledge and familiarity with current roster fighters make him a natural choice to replace Joe Rogan for international assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Joe Rogan at UFC 333?
Retired UFC lightweight Paul Felder is replacing Joe Rogan as the color commentator for UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi.
When and where is UFC 333 taking place?
UFC 333 takes place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Who is fighting in the UFC 333 main event?
Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski defends his title against Movsar Evloev in the main event.
Who makes up the UFC 333 commentary team?
The commentary team consists of Jon Anik, Daniel Cormier, and replacement color commentator Paul Felder.
