After reclaiming the UFC Featherweight Championship in a thrilling five-round battle against Diego Lopes at UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski has firmly reasserted his dominance in the division. With his win, Volkanovski proved once again why he is regarded as one of the greatest Featherweights in mixed martial arts history. However, despite his victory, the landscape of the Featherweight division is rapidly changing, and the undefeated Russian contender, Movsar Evloev, is positioning himself as the next legitimate threat to Volkanovski's throne.
Evloev is one of the most promising talents in the division, with an immaculate 19-0 record and impressive victories over the likes of Arnold Allen, Dan Ige, and Diego Lopes. His wrestling-heavy approach, combined with a well-rounded striking game, has earned him a top spot in the rankings, currently sitting at #4. His ability to control his opponents and dictate the pace of the fight makes him a serious challenge for anyone in the division.
A clash between Volkanovski and Evloev is one of the most exciting matchups that can be made at Featherweight. Volkanovski, known for his tactical brilliance and ability to adapt mid-fight, would face off against Evloev's relentless wrestling and dominant control. The stylistic contrast is clear: Volkanovski's striking against Evloev's grappling and control. A title fight between the two would not only be a battle for the championship but also a battle of wills – can Evloev break Volkanovski’s resilient spirit, or will the champion's experience and skill prove too much for the undefeated Russian?
The Australian is known for his relentless pressure, exceptional cardio, and high-level striking. His sharp boxing, ability to mix up attacks, and adaptability in the Octagon make him a dangerous opponent for anyone. Furthermore, Volkanovski has shown in past fights that he can weather adversity and adjust his game plan mid-fight, a crucial attribute when facing a fighter like Evloev.
Evloev’s undefeated record speaks volumes about his skillset, which is centered around his superior wrestling and control. His ability to dictate the pace of a fight with his grappling is his key weapon, and his ground and pound is also a significant threat. While Evloev has shown some vulnerability on the feet, his control over opponents once the fight hits the mat is remarkable.
This matchup could headline a major UFC event, possibly a pay-per-view, as it would be a fight between the current champion and a rising undefeated star. Given Volkanovski's star power and Evloev's undefeated streak, this fight has all the ingredients to draw massive attention, particularly with the potential for a stylistic chess match between the two.
A Volkanovski vs. Evloev showdown is a dream fight for MMA fans, and it seems like the perfect next challenge for both fighters. The UFC Featherweight division would be well-served by this contest, which could determine who truly reigns supreme in the division.
Last Five Fights:
Alexander Volkanovski:
- Win vs. Diego Lopes – Unanimous Decision, UFC 314 (April 12, 2025)
- Loss vs. Ilia Topuria – KO (punch), UFC 298 (February 17, 2024)
- Loss vs. Islam Makhachev – KO (head kick), UFC 294 (October 21, 2023)
- Win vs. Yair Rodríguez – TKO (punches), UFC 290 (July 8, 2023)
- Loss vs. Islam Makhachev – Decision (unanimous), UFC 284 (February 12, 2023)
Movsar Evloev:
- Win vs. Aljamain Sterling – Unanimous Decision, UFC 310 (December 7, 2024)
- Win vs. Arnold Allen – Unanimous Decision, UFC 297 (January 20, 2024)
- Win vs. Diego Lopes – Unanimous Decision, UFC 288 (May 6, 2023)
- Win vs. Dan Ige – Unanimous Decision, UFC Fight Night (June 4, 2022)
- Win vs. Hakeem Dawodu – Unanimous Decision, UFC 263 (June 12, 2021)
