The world of mixed martial arts is abuzz with excitement as Dana White recently announced several high-profile fights for 2025 on Instagram. One of the most significant revelations was the upcoming UFC 314 event in Miami, headlined by the highly anticipated bout between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes for the vacant title. However, not everyone is thrilled with the announcement – Movsar Evloev, for one, feels overlooked despite his impressive undefeated record.
It’s worth noting that Diego Lopes made his UFC debut before Evloev, and despite losing that initial fight, he has since racked up an impressive five victories, including a few thrilling finishes. In contrast, Evloev has only managed two narrow decision wins, which hasn’t quite been enough to propel him into the spotlight. What’s more, the Russian fighter is still yet to finish a fight in the UFC, making him somewhat of an enigma to fans.
Following the announcement, Evloev took to social media to express his frustration, stating “145 pounds, 155, anyone” – essentially, he’s willing to fight at either weight class if it means getting a decent opponent. Although it seems he’ll likely remain in the featherweight division, where he’s just one or two fights away from a potential title shot. For now, though, he’ll have to watch from the sidelines as the UFC 314 event unfolds on April 13.
Sterling weighs in on the controversy
Aljamain Sterling, Evloev’s last opponent in the featherweight division, has come to his defense, stating that “it should have been Movsar” in the running for the title. However, he also acknowledged that no fighter in their right mind would turn down a title shot. Lopes responded with some laughter emojis, which prompted Sterling to continue his argument. “You won a fight ahead of a guy who beat you,” he said. “Be grateful and take the opportunity.”
Lopes eventually fired back, explaining that he’s the most active fighter in the division and doesn’t turn down fights like Sterling and Evloev do. The exchange quickly turned heated, with Sterling calling Lopes an idiot and the Brazilian responding in kind. The conversation culminated with Sterling challenging Lopes to a face-to-face meeting, saying “talk to me in person… we can settle it like men.” Meanwhile, Evloev watches from the sidelines, feeling like the opportunity of a lifetime is slipping through his fingers. As Lopes himself said, “I will fight for the title because I am the most active fighter of the division” – a statement that’s sure to add fuel to the fire.