ABU DHABI – Lone'er Kavanagh made a statement at UFC 333.

Kavanagh (11-2 MMA, 4-2 UFC) gave Ramazan Temirov (20-3 MMA, 3-1 UFC) a taste of his own medicine by blasting him with a first-round knockout on Saturday's main card at Etihad Arena.

During the UFC 333 broadcast, the promotion announced that flyweight champion Joshua Van (18-2 MMA, 11-1 UFC) will defend his belt against Manel Kape (23-7 MMA, 8-3 UFC) in the UFC 336 co-main event Jan. 30 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto (Paramount+).

Kavanagh wants the winner in any shape or form.

"I'm here for that title," Kavanagh said during the post-fight news conference. "So, I'd like to think that puts me right back at the top for title contender. I know they've just announced Kape and Van, so I'm happy to wait for the winner. Definitely (I'd be the backup)."

Kavanagh knew the storm he had to withstand from Temirov, who came in with 13 first-round finishes on his resume. He was able to counter him with an uppercut, which spelled the beginning of the end.

"I thought it was a good fight to make," Kavanagh said of Temirov. "He's a big power puncher, he's coming off good wins, but I have full trust in my team, and we had a good game plan. We came out,and we executed. ... It's more about what I'm doing, but definitely you have to take into consideration everything he's going to throw, his main weapons, and we studied well for the fight."