UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski understands why many were surprised when the UFC announced that he would defend his title in a rematch with Diego Lopes at UFC 325 including the champion himself.
With undefeated contenders Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy both vying for their long-awaited shot at the belt, Lopes receiving the nod raised questions about the featherweight division’s pecking order. Speaking to Sporting News Australia, Volkanovski explained how the situation unfolded, why Evloev missed his moment, and why the champ still plans to give the division’s top contenders their due.
“I called for Movsar” Volkanovski says Evloev let his opportunity slip
Volkanovski (27-4 MMA, 14-3 UFC) said he initially wanted Evloev (19-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) as his next challenger following his vacant title win over Lopes in October. But a series of decisions and non-decisions shifted the trajectory.
“I called for Movsar straight after the fight,” Volkanovski said. “I knew he was going to be fighting (Aaron Pico), then he pulled out. He was meant to postpone, and then he didn’t take it. I’m like, ‘There goes your opportunity.’”
Volkanovski emphasized he believes Evloev absolutely earned a title shot but timing matters in the UFC, and passing on opportunities comes with consequences.
“I feel for him… but I totally understand how this game works. You can’t be that guy. You’ve got to be willing to fight anyone, anywhere.”
Lerone Murphy impressed, but the timing wasn’t right
Murphy (17-0-1 MMA, 9-0-1 UFC) inserted himself into the conversation after stepping in on short notice to defeat Aaron Pico in highlight-reel fashion.
Volkanovski thought that might secure the Brit a December date until the UFC made it clear they were eyeing one of two other rising contenders: Jean Silva or Diego Lopes.
“Lerone Murphy did do that, fought a guy on short notice and got a massive finish… I thought it was going to be him.”
Why Lopes got the rematch
Diego Lopes (27-7 MMA, 6-2 UFC) surprised many when he was announced as the UFC 325 challenger, completing a rapid climb from breakout star to immediate title contender.
Volkanovski admits the decision caught him off guard as well but he understands the promotional dynamics behind it.
The champ scored a unanimous decision win over Lopes in their October meeting, but Lopes’ stock only rose in the process, earning fan admiration and catching the UFC’s attention as a marketable, high-action opponent for a major event in Sydney.
Volkanovski promises Evloev and Murphy won’t be left behind
Despite Lopes securing the next opportunity, Volkanovski stressed he remains committed to defending against the division’s best as long as they stay active.
“Whether Movsar and Lerone fight somebody or each other, prove themselves, and then I’ll fight them straight after. They won’t miss their opportunity.”
But he warned that inactivity could cost contenders their shot.
“Take another fight or wait but I don’t think waiting is a good idea.”
What’s next for the featherweight division?
The UFC 325 main event on January 31 in Sydney will settle the score between Volkanovski and Lopes. Meanwhile, Evloev and Murphy may need to stay busy or fight each other. To maintain their position atop the contender list.
Volkanovski insists the door remains open. But as he made clear, opportunities in the modern UFC are earned as much through timing and willingness as skill or record.
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
