Aljamain Sterling has delivered a mixed verdict on Movsar Evloev after UFC London. While he questioned the result, he still believes the Russian deserves a shot at gold.
The Russian star extended his unbeaten record to 20-0 with a win over Lerone Murphy, but the decision sparked debate.
Sterling, who previously lost to Evloev in December 2024, was among those who felt that Murphy had done enough to win the contest.
Despite that stance, ‘Funk Master’ is not standing in Evloev’s way. Instead, he has backed him for a title opportunity, while making his own intentions clear.
Aljamain Sterling backs Movsar Evloev but sends clear warning
Sterling took to X to share his thoughts following the fight.
After many posts debating whether the judges’ assessments were fair, he said: “Regardless of the fight, you deserve the title shot. The judges said you won, so hopefully you are finally next. Make no mistake, I’m happy for you but I’m coming for you again. Enjoy.”
The message reflects both respect and rivalry. The former bantamweight champion acknowledges Evloev’s position in the division, but also signals that their story may not be finished.
Aljamain Sterling previously insisted he deserved title shot after Brian Ortega win
Earlier this month, Sterling also made it clear that he believes he should be in the title conversation himself. After losing to Evloev, he has beaten Brian Ortega in August 2025, and thinks that is enough to put him in the mix.
“I’ve been doing this for a long time, been with the company since 2014, I’ve been calling my shot, defended my belt the most in the bantamweight division, tied with a couple of other greats,” the 36-year-old told MMA Fighting.
“Give me my f—— shot, I deserve a shot at the title, OG vs OG, I’m smarter than all of these dumb motherf—— out there… Diego Lopes gets a f—— rematch and he goes out there and fights worse.
“Yeah, I don’t have knockout power, that’s never been my game, I win with (my head), I’m smarter than a lot of these guys. I’m an OG of the game, give me my f—— title shot, I’ll put on a good show… I’ve earned this.”
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