Reigning Ultimate Fighting Championship featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has suggested he could retire from mixed martial arts following his upcoming title defense against Russian challenger Movsar Evloev in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking to 10 News, the 36-year-old Australian fighter said that if his next bout went poorly, he would consider ending his career. However, Volkanovski added that if the fight went well and left him uninjured, he planned to keep competing.
Volkanovski explained that he takes every contest as it comes while striving to stay honest with himself about his future. He emphasized that he currently has no immediate plans to walk away from the sport and expects to continue fighting beyond his next appearance.
The showdown between Volkanovski and Evloev is scheduled to headline UFC 333 on October 24 in Abu Dhabi. The capital of the United Arab Emirates has become a regular international venue for major pay-per-view events organized by the Las Vegas-based mixed martial arts promotion.
Championship Stakes and Contender Record
Evloev, a 32-year-old Russian contender, enters the main event holding the number one ranking in the UFC featherweight division. The fight marks his first opportunity to compete for a UFC championship belt.
Evloev carries an undefeated professional record of 20 wins without a single defeat into the octagon. In his previous bout in March, the Russian fighter secured a victory over British opponent Lerone Murphy to solidify his position at the top of the division.
For Volkanovski, the October contest will mark the second defense of his featherweight title since regaining the championship belt. During his previous appearance in the winter, the Australian earned a victory over Brazilian challenger Diego Lopes.
Historical Milestones and Division Context
In April, at 36 years old, Volkanovski established a historic milestone by becoming the oldest fighter across all lighter weight classes in UFC history to win a title bout.
The UFC featherweight division, which operates at a 145-pound weight limit, has long been one of the most competitive divisions in mixed martial arts. Volkanovski has established himself as one of the most successful champions in the weight class history after transitioning to the sport from professional rugby league.
Both fighters are preparing for their clash on October 24 in Abu Dhabi, where Evloev will attempt to capture his first title while Volkanovski looks to extend his reign as champion.
