Alexander Volkanovski names two featherweight contenders on his UFC hit list.© NDTV Photo Library
Alexander Volkanovski has named Jean Silva and Aljamain Sterling as the two featherweight contenders that he is ready to face. That is, as long as he retains his championship at UFC 333. The champion believes either man could be next if he has only one more fight left at 145 pounds. For now, though, his attention is fixed on Movsar Evloev. Volkanovski will be risking his featherweight title against the undefeated Evloev at the UFC 333 main event. The bout is set to take place on October 24th at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. A win would extend his second reign and open the door to several major fights in 2027.
Alexander Volkanovski names two potential challengers after Movsar Evloev
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Alexander Volkanovski stated that he is open to facing either Silva or Sterling once the Evloev fight is done. He clarified that neither contender would be fired, even with his career moving into its final stages.
Jean Silva has grown into one of the most dangerous rising names at featherweight. That Volkanovski is ready for a bout against the Brazilian shows that he thinks of him as a dangerous opponent.
Aljamain Sterling is preparing for a second UFC title in a second weight class. The former bantamweight champion is scheduled to fight knockout artist Kevin Vallejos later this year. A win could put him in position to call for Volkanovski early next year.
Volkanovski names undefeated Evloev his biggest threat
Alexander Volkanovski has repeatedly refused to look beyond Movsar Evloev. The Russian brings a perfect 20-0 professional record and a 10-0 UFC record into the title fight. All 10 of his promotional wins have come by decision.
The Australian has described Evloev as the most dangerous fighter in the division apart from himself. He believes the challenger’s lack of finishes does not make him less dangerous. He argued that wrestlers and grinders can “sneak up” on opponents.
Volkanovski has predicted a finish, saying he expects to stop Evloev before the five-round contest reaches the judges. That would be a major statement against an opponent who has never been beaten inside the UFC.
At present, Volkanovski is keeping his attention on Saturday night. But if he beats Evloev, Silva and Sterling appear to be the names he would most like to share the Octagon with next.
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