Paul Felder to Call UFC 333 on October 24
The retired UFC lightweight will replace Joe Rogan for the international fight card held at Etihad Arena.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
Paul Felder is set to serve as color commentator for UFC 333, taking place on October 24, 2026. He will replace Joe Rogan, who does not travel for international promotions.
Why it matters
The change in broadcasting personnel is standard procedure for international events, as Joe Rogan abstains from traveling to non-domestic fight cards. This adjustment ensures the event at Abu Dhabi maintains a veteran presence on the commentary team.
The bantamweight championship bout between Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili is set for the 135-pound division limit. This event features a marquee featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Movsar Evloev.
The players
Paul Felder
He is a retired UFC lightweight fighter who transitioned into a role as a professional broadcaster and analyst.
Joe Rogan
He is a long-standing UFC commentator and podcast host known for his deep association with the promotion's domestic broadcast team.
Alexander Volkanovski
He is a prominent UFC athlete scheduled to compete for the featherweight title at the upcoming event.
Petr Yan
He is a former bantamweight champion who will defend his title against challenger Merab Dvalishvili.
Bruce Buffer
He is the veteran UFC announcer responsible for fighter introductions and declaring official results inside the Octagon.
The details
Paul Felder, who retired from competition in 2020, will anchor the commentary desk for this international event. Brendan Fitzgerald will be joined by analyst Din Thomas, while John Gooden manages backstage reporting and Bruce Buffer performs official duties.
Timeline
Paul Felder retired from professional competition in 2020.
UFC 333 takes place on October 24, 2026, at Etihad Arena.
Season Trajectory
This broadcasting decision follows a long-standing precedent established by the UFC international event logistics. The change reflects the broader operational constraints the organization faces when hosting events outside of the United States.
Viewers watching the broadcast on October 24 will hear the commentary team of Felder, Fitzgerald, and Thomas instead of the usual domestic trio. This change occurs for the marquee featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Movsar Evloev.
The takeaway
The rotating commentary team highlights the unique logistical requirements of hosting major sports events in international markets like Abu Dhabi. Fans can expect a different broadcast chemistry while the main card remains focused on critical title championship implications.
Further reading
For more on the current broadcast lineup, visit Mixed Martial Arts.
