With Alexander Volkanovski now reinstated as the UFC featherweight champion, speculation is beginning to mount about who he might face next.
Volkanovski (27-5 MMA, 14-4 UFC), who ruled the 145-pound division from 2019 to 2024, returned last month after a long layoff to reclaim the title vacated by the man who dethroned him last year, Ilia Topuria (16-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC).
With Topuria now having moved up to the UFC lightweight division, Volkanovski needs a challenger for the first title defense of his second reign as champion.
At the top of the current list of contenders is Movsar Evloev (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC). The Russian star has recently earned wins over notable opponents such as Diego Lopes, Arnold Allen, and Aljamain Sterling. However, his lack of finishes inside the Octagon appears to be a factor in keeping him out of the featherweight title conversation.
Speaking to Kolos MMA this week via a translator, Evloev expressed his belief that the UFC is overlooking him as a potential challenger to Volkanovski's belt.
"As I understand it, the UFC is trying to keep me as far away from anything title-related as possible," the 31-year-old said. "I was at UFC 314. After the fight, I had the opportunity to talk to the UFC. They did not want this. When the (event) was over, we were walking out through the hallway.
"Volk was standing not far from me, talking to fans and staff, taking pictures. ... I wanted to go up to him and congratulate him personally, ask him about the fight, but the security guys didn't give me that opportunity and took me to the opposite side. This shows who the UFC wants to see in the fight for the belt."
All nine of Evloev's wins since signing with the UFC in 2019 have come by way of decision. Despite his proven track record at beating top contenders, he revealed that he will happily continue to overcome any opponent the UFC puts in front of him.
“Apparently, in their eyes, I am not worthy of the title yet," Evloev said. "Give me the opportunity to prove that I'm worthy. If nine wins in the best organization in the world is not enough, I'm ready to fight nine more times. Maybe the UFC will sign someone else, some debutant for me to test him."
