Alexander Volkanovski expects Movsar Evloev to be his next featherweight title defense, with confirmation anticipated soon. Volkanovski, who scored a second decision win over Diego Lopes at UFC 325 in February, has already begun wrestling-focused preparation for the undefeated Russian contender. Evloev carries a perfect 20-0 record with notable UFC wins over Lerone Murphy, Aljamain Sterling, and Diego Lopes, though he has yet to finish any of his ten UFC opponents. Several numbered UFC events remain on the calendar in October, November, and December that could host the championship matchup.
Alexander Volkanovski is expecting his next featherweight title defense to come against top-ranked contender Movsar Evloev, with an official announcement believed to be imminent, according to reports emerging in early August 2026.
Volkanovski, known as "The Great," enters the anticipated matchup as the UFC featherweight champion and the number-three pound-for-pound fighter on the roster. The 37-year-old Australian, who trains out of Freestyle Fighting Gym, holds a 28-4 record and is coming off a second decision victory over Diego Lopes at UFC 325 in February. Standing five-foot-six with a 71-inch reach, Volkanovski has built his championship reign on relentless volume striking, landing nearly six significant strikes per minute at a 57 percent accuracy rate. He has reportedly already begun wrestling-focused preparation with Evloev in mind.
The unbeaten Evloev stands as the division's number-one contender and the most logical challenger to the throne. The 32-year-old Russian, representing American Top Team, carries a flawless 20-0 record and has gone ten UFC fights without a single finish — winning entirely through decisions and demonstrating exceptional control. At five-foot-seven with a 72-inch reach, Evloev generates 3.91 significant strikes per minute while also posing a serious grappling threat, averaging 4.78 takedowns per 15 minutes. His UFC resume includes wins over Lerone Murphy, Aljamain Sterling, and Diego Lopes.
Why it matters
- Evloev's perfect record and top contender status make this the most credible featherweight title challenge available
- Volkanovski's wrestling preparation signals he views Evloev's takedown output as the primary threat
- Several numbered events in October, November, and December remain as potential homes for the bout
- A Volkanovski win would further cement a dominant title reign; an Evloev win would crown the division's first undefeated champion
As of this report, the fight has not been officially announced or signed, and should be treated as a strong expectation rather than a confirmed booking.
Alexander Volkanovski vs Movsar Evloev
See the AI pick, live odds and the full matchup breakdown
