Volkanovski backs Sterling to leapfrog Silva in featherweight title queue with UFC Qatar win

Alexander Volkanovski has named Aljamain Sterling as his preferred next featherweight title challenger — but only if Sterling defeats Kevin Vallejos at UFC Qatar on November 21. The champion made clear the contendership race between Sterling and Jean Silva hinges entirely on that result.

“When we’re talking about who deserves it more, I’m gonna say Aljo,” Volkanovski told Ariel Helwani. “Especially after another win, taking a fight against a dangerous guy like Kevin. It is really up to that fight, I believe. Silva’s in a great position; I think he needs to just wait and see what happens with Aljo.”

Volkanovski (29-4) made the comments fresh off retaining the UFC featherweight title against Movsar Evloev (20-1), stopping the previously unbeaten Russian in the second round of the UFC 333 main event on October 24 in Abu Dhabi.

Sterling (26-5) moved to featherweight after losing the bantamweight title to Sean O’Malley, opening his 145-pound account with a win over Calvin Kattar before dropping a decision to Evloev. He has since bounced back with victories over Brian Ortega and Youssef Zalal, rebuilding his case for a shot at Volkanovski’s belt.

Silva (17-3) presents a compelling alternative. The Brazilian has finished six of his seven UFC victories and entered the organisation via Dana White’s Contender Series, with his only promotional defeat coming against Diego Lopes. Volkanovski acknowledged Silva’s strong position but suggested patience is the right play while the Sterling situation resolves itself.

Should Sterling fall short against Vallejos, Volkanovski indicated Silva would move to the front of the queue — leaving the UFC Qatar co-main event with direct title implications for both men involved.