MMA Series director and matchmaker Fedor Ryzhov has weighed in on the third meeting between Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili, predicting another victory for the Russian and a successful defense of the UFC bantamweight title.

Yan and Dvalishvili are set to meet inside the octagon for a third time in the co-main event of UFC 333 on Oct. 24 in Abu Dhabi.

Ryzhov expects Dvalishvili to be significantly better prepared than he was for their second fight, but believes Yan’s broader skill set and more versatile striking will ultimately make the difference.

“Merab will be much better prepared than he was for the second fight. But I believe Petr has the higher overall skill level and more variety on the feet. That’s why I think Petr Yan will retain the championship belt. My prediction is a late-round stoppage,” Ryzhov said.

The third fight will add another chapter to the rivalry between two of the bantamweight division’s leading contenders. This time, Yan will enter the bout as the reigning champion, while Dvalishvili will once again have the opportunity to compete for the title.