The first challenger for Alexander Volkanovski`s second reign as UFC Featherweight Champion remains uncertain.
This follows Volkanovski`s victory over Diego Lopes at UFC 314 in April, a win that saw him reclaim the 145-pound title after a challenging period in his career.
Previous knockout losses to rivals Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria had led many to believe the Australian`s time at the pinnacle of MMA might be coming to an end.
However, `Alexander the Great` proved his doubters wrong with a classic performance against the aggressive Lopes in Miami. He now aims to replicate that success when he defends the gold.
Regarding Volkanovski`s next opponent, many feel the most deserving contender is clear based on merit.
Ali Abdelaziz Criticizes UFC for Overlooking Movsar Evloev as Next Challenger
Few fighters have compiled a winning streak as impressive as Movsar Evloev without receiving a title opportunity.
The undefeated Russian has won all eight of his fights in the UFC, including recent victories over top competitors like Lopes, Arnold Allen, and Aljamain Sterling.
Despite this perfect record, his perceived cautious fighting style and lack of finishes seem to have made the UFC reluctant to book him against Volkanovski.
According to Evloev`s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, this situation should not be permitted.
“It`s `illegal` for him not to get the next title shot because who else is more deserving?” Abdelaziz stated to ESPN MMA.
“It`s unbelievable he`s not even being discussed… They claim he needs one more win.”
Alexander Volkanovski`s View on Fighting Movsar Evloev
If the UFC maintains its apparent hesitation regarding Evloev, it would contradict Volkanovski`s own stated preference.
The Australian champion is eager to face the undefeated 31-year-old, viewing the potential matchup as an opportunity to further solidify his already remarkable legacy in the sport.
Even before regaining the title, Volkanovski had expressed interest in fighting Evloev, describing him as “definitely deserving” of the next championship opportunity.
“I`m telling you I`m going to go out there, win the belt, and I`ll call out [Evloev] so he can wait if he wants,” Volkanovski said on The Ariel Helwani Show.
“I`m winning that title, and I`ll fight him three months later. Tell me the date, and I`ll call the shots that night.
“I believe Movsar is definitely deserving.”
Nevertheless, it appears Dana White and the UFC may require further convincing, potentially by having Evloev compete in yet another contender bout.
