Volkanovski Confirms Evloev Next, Training Underway

Alexander Volkanovski has begun training for what he believes will be his next featherweight title defense against undefeated contender Movsar Evloev.

The UFC champion, coming off a decision victory over Diego Lopes at UFC 325 in February, told fans in a vlog that while the matchup remains unofficial, he's already preparing for the Russian grappling specialist. "It's not locked in, but it's pretty obvious it's probably going to be Movsar," Volkanovski said, per MMA Fighting. "So get all that wrestling in nice and early."

Evloev's Path To Title Shot Despite Lack Of Finishes

Evloev carries a spotless 20-0 record into what would be his first UFC championship opportunity, though injuries and a lack of stoppages have slowed his march to the top. The Russian has gone the distance in all 10 UFC appearances but holds wins over Lerone Murphy, Aljamain Sterling, and Lopes — the latter of whom has twice challenged for the belt.

Volkanovski, currently in Thailand for camp, said he's treating the fight as confirmed despite no official announcement. "Still nothing confirmed, but the dates I'm thinking, I need to start getting ready so we're playing as if it's game on," he said. "We should get confirmation soon though."

The UFC has numbered events in October, November, and December still requiring main events, giving matchmakers several windows to book the featherweight title fight before year's end.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Alexander Volkanovski expects Movsar Evloev to be next opponent, bout confirmation soon | MMA Fighting