Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has expressed his frustration regarding Jean Silva’s inclusion in discussions for a title shot.
While Volkanovski’s next bout remains unconfirmed, Movsar Evloev is widely anticipated to be the next challenger, especially after his recent victory at UFC London. Despite this, Jean Silva has been actively lobbying for a title opportunity, a claim Volkanovski disputes.
Volkanovski suggests that a hypothetical victory over Silva would likely draw criticism, with observers questioning the legitimacy of such a title defense and Silva’s suitability as a challenger.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Volkanovski candidly stated, “Regarding the Silva situation, he simply hasn’t proven himself yet.” He further elaborated, “He faced a high-ranking opponent and lost – an individual I’ve defeated comfortably twice. If I were to fight and subsequently beat him, which I’m quite confident I would, and then he goes on to lose to fighters like Movsar Evloev or Lerone Murphy, people would undoubtedly reflect and question, ‘Why did he even fight that guy? He was only ranked sixth, had just one win, and hadn’t defeated any top-tier competitors.'”
He added, “Who would even remember such a fight? While I’m prepared to face anyone the UFC assigns, I’ve already taken on undeserving opponents numerous times when a clear number one contender exists. I’ve done my part. This current scenario, honestly, is becoming absurd. It’s making me appear as the villain for not pursuing the undisputed top contender.”
Consequently, Volkanovski’s preference is to challenge Evloev, citing his undefeated record and his undisputed status as the top contender.
Volkanovski’s Desire: Undefeated Challengers
Despite Silva’s current sixth-place ranking in the featherweight division, Volkanovski maintains that he requires at least one or two more significant victories before earning a title opportunity.
Therefore, Volkanovski’s aspiration is to confront Evloev next, aiming to hand him his first professional loss and, in doing so, further solidify his own legacy.
Volkanovski articulated his preference, stating, “I want the undefeated fighter who has overcome all the other contenders, all the top-ranked individuals.” He continued, “I’m confident that a win against him would greatly enhance my resume, given his impressive record and the quality of his past opponents. I believe he will defeat all other contenders, making such a victory age well on my record.”
Alexander Volkanovski holds a professional record of 28-4, having recently secured consecutive victories over Diego Lopes to successfully defend his championship.
Who do you believe Alexander Volkanovski’s next opponent should be?