A leading UFC featherweight contender who many viewed as Alexander Volkanovski’s next challenger experienced a significant health struggle in 2025 that jeopardized his career. Despite an impressive undefeated streak, the fighter was sidelined by a prolonged illness that left doubts about his ability to return to the Octagon.
Alexander Volkanovski recently defended his title against Diego Lopes, securing a victory in a match that sparked debate among fans expecting different challengers. Among those unable to compete last year was this contender, whose health issues prevented him from solidifying his position for a title shot.
How Health Issues Forced Movsar Evloev to Withdraw from a Key Fight
Movsar Evloev, a Russian fighter with nine consecutive UFC wins, was positioned as a strong candidate to challenge Volkanovski after a series of successful bouts. However, an anticipated matchup against Aaron Pico in July 2025 never took place when Evloev had to pull out due to an illness contracted in Thailand.
Following his withdrawal, Lerone Murphy replaced him and then knocked out Pico at UFC 319, putting Murphy briefly in the spotlight as a possible next contender. Evloev later discussed his bout with a coronavirus-related illness on Submission Radio, revealing the severity of his condition and its impact on his career.
“I pulled out because of, I don’t know, some type of corona [virus] in Thailand,”
Evloev explained.
“I was ready to fight but two weeks before the fight, I started feeling so bad. Even doing some easy exercises made me feel so bad. So, I decided to pull out because my body wasn’t ready to fight.”
?Movsar Evloev, UFC Fighter
The illness took a toll beyond the initial infection, causing lingering symptoms that made recovery uncertain and raised concerns about the future of his fighting career.
“Bro, even the first two months, I feel like, okay, maybe I’m not gonna come back because every time when I feel okay, then I go to the gym, then the feeling comes back.”
?Movsar Evloev, UFC Fighter
Evloev’s UFC Record and What Remains Before a Title Fight
With a flawless UFC record and multiple wins over ranked opponents, Movsar Evloev has built a strong case to be Alexander Volkanovski’s next opponent. Still, his recent health setbacks stalled his momentum, allowing other contenders like Lerone Murphy to make their own claims for a title match.
The question remains: what must Evloev do to finally earn his chance to challenge Volkanovski? His upcoming fights will likely be scrutinized as he works to re-establish his status in the featherweight division.
Upcoming UFC London Fight Offers Evloev a Chance to Prove Himself
Movsar Evloev is scheduled to return to the cage against Lerone Murphy in the main event at UFC London on March 21. This bout carries significant implications, as both fighters aim to confirm who deserves to face Alexander Volkanovski next.
Despite Murphy’s intention to use pressure tactics, Evloev remains confident and unfazed, signaling readiness to match or outlast his opponent’s approach until victory is secured.
“Very interesting [to see] how he’s going to do this against me because my plan is the same,”
Evloev said.
“I’ll push this guy until [the] referee puts my hand up.”
?Movsar Evloev, UFC Fighter
This fight represents a crucial moment for Evloev to silence doubts and demonstrate that he remains the top contender for Volkanovski’s featherweight belt.
The Importance of Evloev’s Recovery and Future Challenges
Movsar Evloev’s health battle highlights the unpredictable challenges fighters face beyond training and competition. His struggle with a severe illness interrupted his bid for a title shot, creating uncertainty about his career’s direction.
As he prepares for his return in UFC London, the bout against Lerone Murphy will not only test his physical readiness but also determine the immediate landscape of the featherweight division. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Evloev can reclaim his position as Alexander Volkanovski’s next challenger and continue his ascent toward the championship.
