Dana White claims he recognized Alexander Volkov during UFC 333 presser

UFC President Dana White has addressed claims that he failed to recognize heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov when the fighter posed as a reporter during the UFC 333 press conference. During the media event, Volkov asked featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski about the requirements for becoming a champion before directing questions toward White regarding his path to a heavyweight title shot.

While White appeared uncertain during the exchange—asking Volkov for his fight resume and incorrectly guessing his age as 28 instead of 38—he later insisted he was merely playing along with the stunt. White stated, “He thought I didn’t know,” suggesting the interaction was a shared joke. However, the incident drew mixed reactions from fans on social media, with some questioning whether the UFC leadership was truly aware of the veteran fighter's identity.

Volkov, who is scheduled to face Rizvan Kuniev on the UFC 333 main card in Abu Dhabi, was directed by White to speak with matchmakers Sean Shelby and Mick Maynard regarding potential title opportunities following the Ciryl Gane versus Josh Hokit bout.