Movsar Evloev Needs Ilia Topuria’s Name on His Hit List

Ilia Topuria may be riding high after a dominant 2024, but Movsar Evloev has made it clear that he’s laser-focused on one goal: securing a fight with the Spanish-Georgian star. Whether at featherweight, lightweight, or even middleweight, Evloev is determined to chase Topuria down and settle the score.

Movsar Evloev Won’t Rest Until He Faces Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria cemented his status as one of the best featherweights on the planet with back-to-back statement wins, knocking out Alexander Volkanovski early in the year and ending 2024 with a vicious finish against Max Holloway. His meteoric rise has even sparked conversations about a potential move up to lightweight.

However, Movsar Evloev isn’t fazed by Topuria’s plans to leave featherweight. The Russian standout, fresh off a controversial decision win over Aljamain Sterling, has made it clear that he won’t let Topuria off the hook.

In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Evloev didn’t mince words:

“Ilia has started talking that he’s moving up. I don’t know what’s going on. But for me, it doesn’t matter who my next opponent will be. If the champion moves up, he will leave the title, I will get the title, and then I will follow him. Lightweight is not too far for me.”

Evloev’s ambition doesn’t stop at featherweight gold. He’s willing to follow Topuria through multiple divisions to prove his superiority:

“Even if he moves up, I will take the belt first, because this is my first goal, and then I will go after him, even if he goes to middleweight,” Evloev stated.

Evloev believes that Topuria’s power and reputation don’t intimidate him. He added confidently, “He is not a big guy. I don’t need to cut weight to beat this guy. I need his head on my list.”

The Featherweight Division’s Future

With Topuria considering a jump to lightweight and Evloev fixated on his pursuit, the featherweight division is at a crossroads. If Topuria vacates the title, Evloev could find himself with the opportunity to claim the championship—only to continue hunting Topuria in the next division.

As fight fans eagerly await Topuria’s next move, one thing is certain: Movsar Evloev is determined to ensure their paths cross, no matter what weight class it takes.

Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images