Who Should Movsar Evloev Face After Losing his 0?
Movsar Evloev suffered the first loss of his professional career at UFC 333 and we take a look at who he could face next.
Movsar Evloev is no longer undefeated. Challenging Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight strap, Evloev came up short, despite never having faced defeat before. The Russian entered Abu Dhabi with the crowd on his side and with a 20-0 record. He left, still respected by the crowd but with a record of 20-1. Not only that, but he was finished by the champ, making him a far more attractive prospect to face in the future for other contenders.
Movsar Evloev classy in defeat "He's like good wine. Older, stronger, better. He's truly a legend." [ #UFC333 | LIVE on @paramountplus ] https://t.co/NrU3iTa8JE
— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) October 24, 2026
Evloev could be seen as damaged goods now, and he needs a big performance next time out to get his name back in the title picture. With no finishes in the UFC yet, the 32-year-old must start stopping fights to get fans back interested in his fights.
We take a look at who he could face next.
Matchmaking Movar Evloev
Jean Silva
Jean Silva could be in line for a title shot next; he may be overlooked in favour of others in the division. He's a top contender and enjoying two wins back-to-back; however, he's without a win over a true elite of the 145lbs division. Silva's UFC record has only one former titleholder or challenger on it, Diego Lopes, in a fight that he lost. Silva needs a big name on his record, and Evloev can be that name.
For Evloev, a win over Silva allows him to continue to show that he's one of the very best in the division.
Aaron Pico
Both Aaron Pico and Movsar Evloev fought at UFC 333; however, they had vastly different outcomes. Pico came away with one of the most important wins of his career, finishing Losene Keita in just 1:14.
Following on from his big win, he called for a title shot, and although he won't get one next, Pico vs Evloev would certainly be an entertaining fight. It would reignite the American vs Russian wrestling debate and would determine if Pico is truly at 'that' level.
Yair Rodriguez
If Yair Rodriguez ever fights again, he'll be given a big name. He's still a well-known name within the featherweight division; however, having been out for over a year, 'El Pantera' is somehow still ranked highly at #6 by the media.
On paper, it's a big name and a straightforward fight for Movsar Evloev and would be an attractive prospect for the Russian.
