Rizvan Kuniev Targets Alex Pereira After Alexander Volkov Clash at UFC 333

UFC heavyweight Rizvan Kuniev has laid out his upcoming plans inside the Octagon, aiming to defeat Alexander Volkov at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi before targeting a high-profile showdown with Alex Pereira. Kuniev enters Saturday's contest carrying momentum from recent victories over Tyrell Fortune and Jailton Almeida.

Speaking at media day on Wednesday, Kuniev addressed his matchup with fellow Russian fighter Volkov, making it clear there is no friendship between them. Kuniev took issue with Volkov bringing up his past doping suspension, expressing confidence that his rival and team are uneasy ahead of the bout. A victory over the top-ranked Volkov would significantly elevate Kuniev's position in the heavyweight division, where undisputed champion Ciryl Gane is scheduled to defend his title against Josh Hokit on Nov. 14 at UFC 334, and Sergei Pavlovich is slated to face Pereira.

Looking beyond UFC 333, Kuniev stated he would prefer to face Pereira over Pavlovich if an immediate title opportunity is not available, noting he prefers not to fight fellow countrymen when other top-10 options exist. Kuniev also took aim at Pereira's current standing, questioning how the Brazilian secured the No. 3 spot in the heavyweight division.

"As far as I'm concerned, I think it's AI that does those rankings because it doesn't really make much sense," Kuniev said, according to MMA Fighting. "I think the reason why he's No. 3 is because they're looking at all his accolades being a champion in two weight classes before this one.

But to go on No. 3 in heavyweight after one loss, I think that's very strange because at least give him a couple more fights."