Movsar Evloev, currently ranked No. 4 in the featherweight division with a perfect 19-0 record, aims to stay active in 2025 to secure a title shot, expressing willingness to fight top contenders like Diego Lopes, Alexander Volkanovski, and Max Holloway as he navigates the uncertain landscape of the division.
Movsar Evloev, after an 11-month hiatus between fights in 2024, is eager to stay active in 2025. His eyes are firmly set on a future title shot.
The undefeated Russian sits at No. 4 in the featherweight division with a perfect 19-0 record. Nine of those wins come from his UFC bouts. However, he knows that challenging for featherweight gold might not be his next step.
Ilia Topuria, the reigning champion, has hinted at moving up to lightweight. Despite this, a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski seems more likely for his next defense.
Evloev respects Volkanovski’s achievements but believes the champ’s era may be over. Yet, he’s aware the UFC could still grant Volk another title opportunity.
“They already fought and Volk lost to Ilia,” Evloev told MMA Fighting. “Now it’s about new names in the division—like me at No. 4.”
Volkanovski is undeniably a legend, but Evloev thinks it’s time for fresh faces. He feels ready and willing to fight for the title.
Evloev’s strategy now focuses less on rankings and more on staying active. He’s even open to a rematch with Diego Lopes, despite having already defeated him.
Lopes took their first fight on short notice and has been calling for another chance ever since. Evloev sees no reason to decline.
“Why not?” he says about facing Lopes again. “He’s higher in the rankings now and has been impressive.”
For Evloev, any fight that brings him closer to a title shot is worthwhile. Whether it’s against Lopes or even Volkanovski again.
He’s also eyeing former champion Max Holloway, despite Holloway’s plans to move to lightweight.
Evloev doubts he’ll get that fight but remains open to any opponent the UFC offers. “Without him, I’m No. 3,” he notes about Holloway’s ranking status.
Ultimately, Evloev wants a busy schedule in 2025 leading to a title shot. “While I’m waiting [for a title shot], I can fight,” he insists.
He just hopes not to be sidelined while waiting for his chance at the belt.