Movsar Evloev is closely watching the UFC 314 headliner between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes this Saturday.
After Ilia Topuria surprisingly gave up the featherweight title, it appeared Evloev was in a strong position to compete for the vacant belt.
However, Dana White announced Alexander Volkanovski would fight Diego Lopes for the title, overlooking the undefeated Russian fighter. Evloev boasts a nine-fight winning streak in the UFC and has already defeated Lopes.
White has been open about not being a fan of Evloev’s wrestling-focused style, even calling his UFC 297 victory over Arnold Allen “the least exciting fight ever.”
Movsar Evloev’s Team Shuts Down Recent Fight Speculation
Despite expectations that Evloev, 31, would be next to fight the Volkanovski vs. Lopes winner, rumors emerged this week linking him to a fight with Aaron Pico.
Aaron Pico became a free agent last year after his contract with PFL ended. He is considered a top prospect in the featherweight division, and many UFC fans have wanted him signed.
Given Evloev`s high ranking in the featherweight division, the Pico rumor was surprising.
However, Russian media outlet Red Fury MMA reported earlier today that the Evloev vs. Pico fight is off. Evloev’s management team has decided to wait and see what happens in the Volkanovski vs. Lopes fight this Saturday.
This decision makes sense for Evloev, especially since both Volkanovski and Lopes have mentioned him as a potential next opponent if they win the title.
Evloev Could Follow Ankalaev`s Path to a Title Shot
While Evloev might feel he deserves a featherweight title shot already, his situation could mirror that of his fellow countryman, Magomed Ankalaev.
Ankalaev, despite a long winning streak in the light heavyweight division, was repeatedly passed over for title fights until the UFC could no longer ignore him.
Ankalaev eventually fought for the title against Alex Pereira earlier this year and became the light heavyweight champion.
Rupert Hartwell