Alexander Volkanovski‘s second run as UFC Featherweight Champion may be underway, but according to Jorge Masvidal, “The Great’s” road ahead is anything but forgiving. While Volkanovski has built a reputation as one of the most complete fighters of his era, Jorge Masvidal believes the division’s next wave of contenders presents challenges that even the champion may struggle to overcome.
Why Movsar Evloev’s Relentless Wrestling Worries Masvidal Against Alexander Volkanovski
Speaking on his podcast Death Row MMA, Masvidal offered a blunt assessment of Volkanovski’s outlook should he find himself matched up against undefeated contender Movsar Evloev or surging British standout Lerone Murphy. According to the veteran, those two represent a stylistic gauntlet that could define, or derail, Volkanovski’s legacy at 145 lbs.
“I don’t think Volk beats either of those two guys to tell you the truth,” the 41-year-old said of Alexander Volkanovski. “I think Movsar will be too much with the wrestling in a different way. I know he did amazing against Islam (Makhachev) with the wrestling, Volk, so that’s saying a lot.”
However, the Florida-native acknowledged Alexander Volkanovski’s proven ability to neutralize elite grapplers, pointing to his performances against Makhachev. That said, he sees Evloev as a fundamentally different problem. While not as polished or technical as the lightweight champion, the Russian’s relentlessness could change the rhythm of a fight.
“I think Movsar could find a way to get to his legs and make it a dog fight,” Masvidal explained. “He has a different pace than Islam. He’s not as technical, I think, as Islam. He’s not as savvy as Islam, but he’s got more of a motor than Islam. He’ll put up more attempts, and that could cost you.”
Evloev’s undefeated UFC run (19-0-0) has been defined by consistency rather than spectacle, with decision wins and grinding performances slowing his rise to a title shot. Still, Masvidal sees that pressure-based approach as a potential recipe for trouble against an aging champion.
‘I See Volk Getting Caught’ – Masvidal on Alexander Volkanovski vs. Lerone Murphy
“Street Jesus” was even more emphatic when discussing Murphy, who has surged into contention with explosive striking and physical advantages that few featherweights possess.
“I think Murphy vs. Volk, I also see Volk getting caught,” Masvidal said. “I see Murphy right now getting him. Volk can’t control this guy. I don’t think he’ll be able take him down and hold him down. I’d be surprised if he was able to take him down, hold him down. I’d be thoroughly surprised.”
On the feet, Masvidal believes Murphy’s size, reach, and unpredictable offense could overwhelm Alexander Volkanovski –
“On the feet, this guy’s way bigger, longer, crazy style of striking, explosive, and still very basic,” he added. “He doesn’t do dumb things and get himself hurt or put himself in harm’s way. So I’d go with Murphy for the title against Volk, too.”
Yet Masvidal stopped short of dismissing Alexander Volkanovski’s greatness altogether. In fact, he framed the challenge as an opportunity for immortality should the champion prove him wrong.
“If Volk can pull this gauntlet off, greatest featherweight that ever lived, maybe fighter that ever lived, as well,” Masvidal said. “If he could beat those next two dudes right there, that’s interdimensional. Another level of greatness.”
For Alexander Volkanovski, the message is clear: The featherweight crown may still be his, but defending it against the division’s most dangerous contenders could require the defining performances of his career.
