In just over 48 hours, Movsar Evloev will step into the Octagon to challenge Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title at UFC 333. The undefeated Russian earned his shot after beating Lerone Murphy at UFC London, improving his professional record to 20-0 and finally getting his long-awaited opportunity to fight for UFC gold.
The win over Murphy also marked Evloev’s 10th consecutive victory in the UFC. While some fans have overlooked his skills, the Russian could make things much tougher for the Australian champion than many expect. However, Volkanovski isn’t the only fighter on Evloev’s mind heading into the October 24 event.
Evloev recently addressed the possibility of fighting Arman Tsarukyan and appeared open to welcoming the Armenian to the 145-pound division.
Movsar Evloev Willing to Fight Arman Tsarukyan at 145lbs if UFC Makes It Happen
During UFC 333 media day, Evloev was asked about a potential matchup with Tsarukyan. He replied, “In my whole career, I’ve considered zero potential fights, because it was never up to me. I fought whoever they gave me, and this time nothing will change.”
The Russian then explained that he doesn’t concern himself with choosing opponents, leaving those decisions to the UFC’s management. He added, “They decide everything. I’m just a gladiator, as primitive as that may sound. We’re here to fight, and we fight when the management wants it.”
Still, Evloev made it clear that he wouldn’t turn down a fight with Tsarukyan if the UFC decided to make it happen. He said, “If Arman wants to come down to featherweight, like I said, it’s my territory. Whether Arman comes down or someone moves up, I don’t know; it makes no difference who I fight. Make 145, and we’ll fight, if the UFC wants that fight, of course.”
⚔️ Movsar Evloev sends a bold challenge to Arman Tsarukyan, declaring featherweight HIS territory and welcoming a showdown if Arman drops to 145 pounds.
“If Arman wants to come down to featherweight, like I said, it’s my territory. Make 145 and we’ll fight, if the UFC wants that fight, of course.”
Evloev says he’s never picked his opponents and will fight anyone the UFC puts in front of him, describing himself as a “gladiator.”
🏆 He also believes winning the featherweight title would only be the beginning, insisting that even two title defenses wouldn’t be enough to establish himself as the greatest featherweight in history.
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The comments are particularly interesting given that Tsarukyan previously expressed interest in dropping to 145 pounds to challenge Volkanovski for the title when his lightweight title prospects were uncertain.
Since then, however, Tsarukyan has regained some momentum and is waiting to find out what’s next. The Armenian is reportedly hoping to secure a shot at Justin Gaethje after the Armenian knocked out Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331. Whether Tsarukyan eventually pursues another opportunity at lightweight or considers a move down to featherweight remains to be seen.