Petr Yan receives high praise from the UFC as the promotion labels him its greatest boxer ahead of his title defense.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship has officially recognized bantamweight titleholder Petr Yan as the promotion is Greatest Boxer in a newly released video tribute on their official YouTube channel.
The promotional video highlights signature performances against notable opponents like Teruto Ishihara, Jose Aldo, and Urijah Faber, setting the stage for a high stakes championship bout in Abu Dhabi.
This major promotional push arrives just days before the 135 pound champion defends his belt in a highly anticipated rubber match, according to information published by mmamania.
Inside Petr Yan striking statistics and records
While the promotional tribute celebrates Petr Yan as a premier boxer, historical striking records in the division are heavily dominated by former featherweight champion Max Holloway.
Statistically, the 33 year old contender does not currently crack the Top 10 in all time promotional striking records, though he maintains a dominant presence inside his specific weight class.
Within the 135 pound division, Petr Yan currently leads in significant strikes landed while holding the second position in total strikes landed behind his upcoming opponent.
The high stakes rubber match against Merab Dvalishvili
At UFC 333, the reigning champion faces longtime rival Merab Dvalishvili, a dominant grappler widely regarded as the promotion is greatest wrestler in history.
Opponent Merab Dvalishvili holds the distinction of being the only fighter in the history of the organization to successfully break the milestone of 100 total takedowns.
Addressing the relentless wrestling pressure, Petr Yan stated that diamonds are made under pressure, noting that he is fully prepared for the grueling championship pace.
Future career ambitions and weight class moves
Beyond the current bantamweight championship landscape, Petr Yan has expressed a future interest in moving up to the 145 pound featherweight division.
However, any potential divisional move comes with self imposed limitations, as the champion explicitly stated he will not fight his close friend Alexander Volkanovski.
Meanwhile, Alexander Volkanovski remains focused on his own upcoming assignment at the same event, where he plans to finish opponent Movsar Evloev.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the UFC call Petr Yan the greatest boxer?
The Ultimate Fighting Championship named Petr Yan the promotion is greatest boxer in a promotional video tribute highlighting his elite striking performances against fighters like Jose Aldo and Urijah Faber.
Who is Petr Yan fighting at UFC 333?
Petr Yan is defending his 135 pound bantamweight title in a rubber match against longtime rival Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi.
What are Petr Yan striking statistics in the UFC?
Petr Yan leads the 135 pound bantamweight division in significant strikes landed and sits at number two in total strikes landed behind Merab Dvalishvili.
Does Petr Yan plan to move up to featherweight?
Petr Yan has expressed interest in moving up to the 145 pound weight class, but he has ruled out fighting his friend Alexander Volkanovski.
