Movsar Evloev reacts to UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski backing him for title shot ahead of UFC 333 showdown

Movsar Evloev has shown major respect for Alexander Volkanovski ahead of their UFC 333 featherweight title fight. The undefeated Russian contender praised Volkanovski for repeatedly supporting his case for a championship opportunity and called the Australian a genuine champion.Evloev believes Volkanovski’s backing was sincere and showed that the champion respects the best fighters in the division. The two will now settle their rivalry inside the Octagon in Abu Dhabi on October 24, 2026.Movsar Evloev calls Alexander Volkanovski “the real one” after title-shot supportMovsar Evloev’s journey to a UFC featherweight title opportunity has not been straightforward. The undefeated fighter has dealt with several cancelled and postponed bouts during his UFC career.Despite those setbacks, Evloev believes he is challenging for the title at the right time. He has remained unbeaten and continued to build his record while waiting for his opportunity.Volkanovski’s support has been an important part of the story. The Australian champion has repeatedly acknowledged Evloev’s unbeaten record and credentials. He has also backed the Russian’s claim to fight for the belt.Evloev clearly appreciated that support.“Volk is not fake. He’s the real one. He’s the champ, and he deserves to be there, and I do too”, he said via MMA Fighting.The comments show the level of respect Evloev has for the reigning champion. Rather than treating Volkanovski’s support as simple promotion, Evloev believes it came from genuine respect.The two fighters will now meet with the UFC featherweight championship on the line. Volkanovski will defend his title against Evloev in the main event of UFC 333 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.For Evloev, the fight represents the biggest opportunity of his career.The Russian enters the contest with an unbeaten professional record of 20-0. His wrestling and grappling have been major parts of his success. He has consistently used his control and takedowns to frustrate opponents and win decisions.However, Evloev has also suggested that he is prepared to stand and trade if Volkanovski wants to make the fight a striking contest.“For this camp, we do everything we’re ready to do striking match, as he said he’s going to make this fight a striking match. Okay, in this case we’re ready for striking too,” Evloev said.Volkanovski, meanwhile, brings extensive championship experience into the matchup. The Australian has established himself as one of the leading fighters of his generation and has also worked on his grappling ahead of the challenge.Evloev’s path to the title has included several frustrating interruptions. A positive COVID-19 test forced him out of his planned fight against Ilia Topuria at UFC 270 in 2022. Other bouts were also cancelled after opponents suffered injuries.More recently, illness forced him out of a scheduled fight with Aaron Pico. He eventually returned and defeated Lerone Murphy by unanimous decision.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.