UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan reveals interest in a future move to featherweight, pending the right challenge.
UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan has recently expressed openness to moving up a weight class in the future, potentially competing in the featherweight division for a brand new challenge in mixed martial arts.
Before any divisional shift, the Russian fighter is scheduled to defend his bantamweight championship against rival Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333, following a history of fascinating encounters between the two athletes.
The potential weight class change remains a future prospect for the champion, who has successfully rebuilt his career to reclaim the top spot, according to information published by bjpenn.
Petr Yan weighs future challenges in mixed martial arts
In a recent interview with Full Violence, the bantamweight titleholder discussed the logistics of changing weight classes and what it would take for him to make the permanent jump up to 145 pounds.
While assessing his career trajectory, Yan noted that while other fighters might eventually move up to challenge him, the idea of stepping up in weight himself sounds personally intriguing for the future.
Friendship with featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski
A significant factor regarding a potential move to the featherweight division involves the current divisional titleholder, Alex Volkanovski, who happens to be a personal friend of the Russian star.
Yan explicitly stated during his interview with Bloody Elbow that because the reigning 145-pound champion is his friend, he has no desire to fight or beat him up inside the Octagon.
Focus on UFC 333 title defense against Merab Dvalishvili
At the present moment, all competitive attention for the champion remains strictly fixed on maintaining his dominant position at the top of the bantamweight division.
Fans and pundits are eagerly anticipating the upcoming trilogy bout at UFC 333, especially after Merab Dvalishvili humorously admitted that Yan could potentially pose a massive threat during their next meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Petr Yan fighting next in the UFC?
Petr Yan is scheduled to defend his UFC bantamweight championship against rival Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333.
Is Petr Yan planning to move to the featherweight division?
Petr Yan is open to moving up to featherweight in the future for a new challenge, though his current focus is on the bantamweight division.
Why would Petr Yan not fight Alex Volkanovski at 145 pounds?
Petr Yan stated that the current featherweight champion Alex Volkanovski is his friend, meaning he does not want to fight him.
