Aaron Pico Reveals What Movsar Evloev Needs to Beat Alexander Volkanovski
Aaron Pico explains why Movsar Evloev may need a knockout to beat Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 333.
Movsav Evloev has crafted his unbeaten record primarily around his wrestling skills, but Aaron Pico thinks that just having strength might not cut it when it comes to taking down Alexander Volkanovski. As Evloev prepares to challenge Volkanovski for the UFC featherweight title at UFC 333 on Oct. 24, Pico has pointed out one major challenge that the Russian fighter might face: keeping the Australian on the mat.
Pico Questions Evloev’s Ability to Control Volkanovski
Pico believes that Evloev has a good shot with his takedowns, but keeping Volkanovski on the ground for an extended period might be a whole different challenge.
🚨💥 Aaron Pico says Movsar Evloev needs to get a KO to beat Alexander Volkanovski: "It's not as easy to hold Volkanovski down. He fought Islam Makhachev and Islam had hard time holding him down. Movsar can take him down, but the problem is holding him down." 🎥 @MMAFullMount https://t.co/pRLtN47OK4
“For me, I believe that in order for Movsar to win this fight, he has to knock him out,” Pico said in an interview with Full Mount MMA. “It’s not as easy to hold Volkanovski down. He fought Islam Makhachev, and Islam had a hard time taking him down and holding him down.”
The former Bellator standout also discussed what his expectations are if Evloev is unable to maintain control.
“I think Movsar can take him down, but the problem is holding him down,” Pico said. “Volkanovski is gonna be up to his feet. He is gonna be moving in, out, making reads on Movsar on the feet.”
Pico's evaluation takes into account Volkanovski's previous battles with Makhachev. In their first clash back in 2023, the Australian pushed the Dagestani champ to his limits. It was by far one of the toughest fights of his career, where he defended multiple takedown attempts and finished the fight on a high note despite losing by unanimous decision.
Evloev Faces His Toughest Test Yet
Evloev steps into UFC 333 with a perfect 20-0 record, including four submission wins. However, he has never finished an opponent in the UFC. This upcoming fight is particularly crucial as Volkanovski has openly and repeatedly welcomed Evloev's wrestling style.
The champion is riding high after his most recent wins against Diego Lopes and remains the UFC featherweight titleholder. For Pico, it's clear that Evloev needs to secure a finish. If the undefeated contender cannot keep Volkanovski on the mat, he might find himself having to beat one of the division's top strikers over the full five rounds instead.
