Alexander Volkanovski’s second run as UFC featherweight champion may be underway, but according to Jorge Masvidal, the road ahead for ‘The Great’ is anything but forgiving. While Volkanovski has built a reputation as one of the most complete fighters of his era, Jorge Masvidal believes the next wave of contenders in the division will present challenges that even the champion may find difficult to overcome.
Why Movsar Evloev’s brutal wrestling worries Masvidal against Alexander Volkanovski
Speaking on his podcast Death Row MMA, Masvidal gave a blunt assessment of Volkanovski’s prospects if he faced undefeated contender Movsar Evloev or rising British standout Lerone Murphy. According to the veteran, these two represent a stylistic gauntlet that could define or derail Volkanovski’s legacy at 145 pounds.
“I don’t think Volk beats either of these guys to tell you the truth,” the 41-year-old said of Alexander Volkanovski. “I think Movsar will be too preoccupied with the wrestling in some other way. I know he did a great job against Islam (Makhachev) in the wrestling, Volk, so that says a lot.”
However, the Florida native acknowledged Alexander Volkanovski’s proven ability to neutralize elite wrestlers, pointing to his performance 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 ruthlessness 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’s at a different pace than Islam. He’s not as technical, I think, as Islam. He’s not as smart as Islam, but he has more motor than Islam. He’ll make more attempts, and that could cost you.”
Evloev’s undefeated UFC streak (19-0-0) has been defined by consistency rather than spectacle, with decisive wins and stellar performances slowing his march toward 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 come into the fight with explosive striking and physical advantages that few featherweights possess.
“I think Murphy versus Volk, I also see Volk getting caught,” Masvidal said. “I see Murphy getting him now. Volk has no control over this guy. I don’t think he can take him down and hold him. I would be surprised if he could take him down and hold him. I would be deeply surprised.”
Masvidal believes Murphy’s size, reach and unpredictable offense could overwhelm Alexander Volkanovski –
“On the feet, this guy is much bigger, taller, crazy style of striking, explosive and still very basic,” he added. “He doesn’t do stupid things that get him hurt or endanger himself. So I would also go with Murphy for the title against Volk.”
Yet Masvidal failed to completely dismiss the greatness of Alexander Volkanovski. In fact, he viewed the challenge as a chance for immortality if the champion proved him wrong.
“If Volk can take off this glove, the greatest featherweight that ever lived, maybe the fighter that ever lived,” Masvidal said. “If he could beat those next two guys 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 competitors could require the defining performances of his career.
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