Alexander Volkanovski sits once again atop the UFC featherweight division. After a brief hiatus following a highly anticipated title challenge, `The Great` reclaimed his throne with a decisive victory over Diego Lopes at UFC 314.
Despite a career already cemented as one of the greatest in the division`s history, marked by numerous title defenses and dominant performances, Volkanovski recently revealed a specific, almost niche, goal that remains tantalizingly out of reach: defeating an undefeated fighter.
Speaking on the *MightyCast* podcast hosted by fellow combat sports legend Demetrious Johnson, Volkanovski discussed his desire for his next title defense. While acknowledging the political and promotional aspects of matchmaking, he pinpointed Movsar Evloev as a preferred opponent, not just because Evloev is a highly deserving contender, but for a very particular reason.
Volkanovski candidly stated that one specific achievement remains unchecked on his remarkable resume: taking an opponent`s `zero`. He noted that his previous encounter with an undefeated fighter resulted in a loss – a clear reference to his first bout against Ilia Topuria, who handed Volkanovski his first defeat in the featherweight division.
For a fighter who has conquered nearly every challenge placed before him, the idea of being the first to tarnish a perfect professional record holds a unique appeal. It represents a distinct type of legacy point, a box Volkanovski explicitly stated he wants to tick before his career concludes.
For this intriguing matchup to materialize, the path for Movsar Evloev is clear. Currently holding a pristine 19-0 professional record, Evloev is on the cusp of a title shot. UFC President Dana White has publicly indicated that a win in Evloev`s next outing would position him as the likely number one contender for Volkanovski`s belt. Evloev, for his part, seems well aware of the opportunity before him and the challenge Volkanovski presents.
So, while the featherweight division continues to evolve, Alexander Volkanovski has identified a specific, almost personal, quest. It`s not just about the belt, the rankings, or the pay-per-view numbers; it`s about the challenge of the unblemished record, and he sees Movsar Evloev`s 19-0 as the perfect target for that singular, unchecked box.
