‘Frustrated’ Champion Alexander Volkanovski Calls Out UFC Matchmakers for Snubbing Contenders

Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski makes his choice for second title defense with ranking priority as his preference.

‘Frustrated’ Champion Alexander Volkanovski Calls Out UFC Matchmakers for Snubbing Contenders

Alexander Volkanovski lashes out at UFC matchmaking (via MMA Mania)

In Short
  • Alexander Volkanovski criticized UFC matchmakers for overlooking top contenders in favor of rematches for marketability.
  • He expressed a desire to fight #1-ranked Movsar Evloev instead of Jean Silva, who has not proven himself.
  • Volkanovski's comments highlight ongoing concerns about fairness in title opportunities within the featherweight division.

Alexander Volkanovski has cemented himself among the greatest featherweight champions in UFC history with dominance and consistency. His division has faced controversy since his first title defense was announced as a rematch against Diego Lopes. Questions have surrounded the selection and ranking of contenders. Recently, Volk criticized matchmakers for overlooking fighters with stronger records.

Volkanovski made his first title defense as a two-time champion at UFC 325, defeating Diego Lopes to retain his featherweight belt. The fight also served as a rematch of their UFC 314 bout for the vacant title. In that earlier matchup, Volkanovski had largely dominated Lopes, leaving little doubt about the outcome. Many observers questioned the necessity of a rematch given his clear performance in the first fight.

Before UFC 325 was announced, many expected Volkanovski to face #1-ranked Movsar Evloev or Lerone Murphy, who had impressed with a knockout over Aaron Pico at UFC 319. The rematch with Lopes ended similarly to their first encounter. There is also discussion of Jean Silva potentially leapfrogging Evloev, who recently defeated Murphy at UFC London, leading up to ‘Volk’s comments on contender selection.

I’m pretty certain it’s Movsar. How many times can I keep not fighting the #1 contender… it’s gonna come to a point like ‘what are we doing here?’. [Jean Silva] is yet to prove himself. He fought [Lopes] and lost, a guy that I beat twice. If I go fight him and I beat him, which I’m quite confident I’ll do, and he starts losing to your Movsar’s and Lerone Murphy’s. People are gonna look back and be like ‘why did he fight that guy?’. Who’s gonna even remember that?

Alexander Volkanovski via his YouTube channel

Silva was not in title discussions until recently, despite his unanimous decision win over Arnold Allen at UFC 324. The victory strengthened his case, with Silva noting the champion should fight whoever is presented. However, before the Allen bout, ‘Lord Silva’ suffered a spinning elbow knockout loss to Lopes at UFC Noche last year. That defeat was referenced in Volk’s comments on contenders and matchmaking.

Even after UFC 325 was announced, Volkanovski maintained that the Lopes rematch was scheduled mainly to boost marketability. He noted that the UFC London bout served to narrow the No. 1 contender spot, as both Evloev and Murphy were seeking the title fight. Volkanovski viewed that matchup as a sort of No. 1 contender bout, which also generated hype as both fighters entered the contest undefeated.

The UFC’s decision to overlook contenders with stronger records and better performances in favor of marketability has become a key topic of discussion in MMA circles today. Alexander Volkanovski’s blunt comments to the matchmaking team highlighted the ongoing issue clearly. His statements raised serious concerns about fairness in title opportunities. The debate continues to shape the 145-pound division overall.

Alexander Volkanovski has a strong opinion on the BMF belt after UFC 326

Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira headlined UFC 326 in Las Vegas for the BMF title on March 7, 2026. Oliveira won by unanimous decision, controlling the fight with takedowns, grappling, and ground control throughout the rounds. The bout drew backlash for lacking the stand‑up violence the BMF belt was meant to showcase. Critics questioned whether the fight truly lived up to the “baddest” concept.

Alexander Volkanovski
Alexander Volkanovski (via Athlon Sports)

Alexander Volkanovski took a strong stance on the UFC 326 BMF matchup. The Australian champion expressed concern over Holloway’s chin strength, noting that the Hawaiian fighter’s durability appeared diminished compared to earlier in his career. Volkanovski highlighted the risk factors for both competitors in the contest. His observations set the stage for his comments about the BMF belt’s potential irrelevance.

If we start fighting like that, don’t be surprised if the BMF belt gets taken away. We might not see it. No, I’m not having shots. I’m just saying that it’s losing its purpose. The purpose behind it is guys that are just going to go and put on fights. I’m not trying to throw shade on Charles.

Alexander Volkanovski via his YouTube channel

Volkanovski’s remarks about the UFC 326 BMF title raised broader questions about the belt’s significance in the promotion. His comments highlighted concerns over fighter safety, matchup quality, and the purpose of symbolic championships. The discussion reflects how elite competitors view the legitimacy of non-traditional titles. The situation continues to spark debate about the BMF belt’s role in future events.

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