Alexander Volkanovski, the two-time UFC featherweight champion from Australia, has expressed a clear interest in facing undefeated contender Movsar Evloev in his next fight. After securing his position atop the division, Volkanovski aims to challenge Evloev, who has yet to experience a professional loss. Despite the potential excitement this matchup promises, UFC President Dana White appears hesitant to prioritize this fight, raising questions about the future dynamics of the featherweight title scene.
Evloev, known for his disciplined fighting style, recently claimed a decision victory over Arnold Allen. However, Dana White voiced his disapproval of that performance, criticizing it as unexciting. This dismissal sparked debate within the MMA community, with former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling stepping up to defend Evloev’s fighting ability and challenge the negative perception perpetuated by White’s comments.
Aljamain Sterling Challenges Negative Label Associated with Evloev
As UFC’s most prominent figure, Dana White’s opinions significantly shape public perception of fighters. Aljamain Sterling, also known as ‘Funk Master,’ argues that White’s remarks have unfairly tagged Movsar Evloev with a stigma, unfairly branding him as a dull fighter. Sterling views this as the “Dana White stigma,” where the UFC chief’s statements influence fans’ opinions more than the fighters’ actual performances.
“I don’t think he is what people are making him out to be. And it kind of goes back to that Dana White stigma. Like, if he says something, it’s just kind of sticks,”
Sterling said during an interview with ‘MMA Fighting.’
“Until Dana says something else, the fans are going to always have this perception of Movsar being a boring fighter. I’m like, ‘Yeah, he’s really not boring.’
Sterling drew parallels between Evloev and his own teammate Merab Dvalishvili, who also faced criticism for being perceived as unexciting. Yet, both fighters maintain dominant performances through their technical skills and consistent control inside the Octagon.
“People were calling Merab boring, I’m like, ‘He’s not boring. It’s just your guys can’t do s–t against him.’”
—Aljamain Sterling, Former Bantamweight Champion
Prospects for a Title Fight Between Volkanovski and Evloev
Movsar Evloev currently holds an impressive 9-fight winning streak in the UFC featherweight division. Though many of his wins have come via decision rather than knockout finishes, Aljamain Sterling insists that this should not bar Evloev from the next title shot. Sterling stresses the importance of keeping the featherweight division active and competitive by allowing Evloev to compete against Volkanovski.
While the matchup is anticipated to be closely contested, Sterling believes Volkanovski’s blend of striking and grappling skills will give him the edge over Evloev. He warns against underestimating the Australian champion, who has consistently demonstrated adaptability and resilience throughout his championship reign.
“I think Movsar should be next, though. He should be next and keep this division moving,”
Sterling remarked.
“Volkanovski is a pretty good grappler himself. I think people might be underestimating how competitive that fight would be. And, I think ‘Volk’ possibly beats him.”
Despite these views, UFC leadership has reportedly scheduled Evloev for a fight in July, but there is no confirmation on when or if he will receive a title shot. Meanwhile, rumors suggest Volkanovski may engage in a rematch with Yair Rodriguez, adding further complexity to the featherweight championship landscape.
Implications for the Featherweight Division and Fans
The hesitation to schedule a showdown between Volkanovski and Evloev has raised concerns about the direction of the featherweight division. Fans eager to see the undefeated Russian test his skills against the reigning champion might face continued delays, fueled by the ‘Dana White stigma’ that undervalues Evloev’s style and accomplishments.
The potential bout carries significant weight for the division, as it could decisively establish the true hierarchy among top contenders and provide clarity on whether Evloev can maintain his unbeaten record. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to break the stigma surrounding fighters who rely on strategic, technical approaches rather than flashy finishes.
Sterling’s vocal support for Evloev and acknowledgment of Volkanovski’s supremacy highlights the intense competition within the featherweight ranks, signaling that the division remains poised for high-stakes, memorable fights in the near future.