Jose Aldo urges UFC to cut Evloev after loss, citing lack of entertainment value

Key points

• Jose Aldo declared that he would cut Movsar Evloev from the UFC roster if he were the president, citing the fighter’s lack of finishes and perceived lack of marketability.
• Aldo argued that the UFC is an entertainment business, not just a ranking system, and that Evloev’s decision-heavy record does not draw sufficient attention or sell out arenas.
• Movsar Evloev is scheduled to challenge Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi on October 24, 2026.
• Evloev has a 10-0 record in the UFC with zero finishes, having won all bouts by decision, including a majority decision over Lerone Murphy in March.
• Aldo expressed support for Volkanovski, stating he hopes the Australian champion wins and defends the title successfully, regardless of potential record implications.
• The debate highlights a broader trend in the UFC, where fighters without finishes are being released, as seen with the recent departure of undefeated bantamweight Farid Basharat.

Background

This controversy arises as Evloev prepares for his first UFC title fight, a bout that has been anticipated for years. Previous archive coverage noted that Evloev’s lack of finishes had already drawn criticism from prospects like Tommy McMillen, who mocked his style in September 2026. Aldo’s comments align with a recent shift in UFC roster management, where the promotion has prioritized fighters who provide high-level entertainment and finishes, even if they are not undefeated. This follows the release of Farid Basharat, who was cut despite a 7-0 UFC record, signaling that winning streaks alone are no longer sufficient to guarantee a contract.

How outlets are covering it

Jose Aldo, via MMA Fighting and BJPenn.com, took a firm stance that Evloev should be cut after his first loss, labeling him a fighter who 'doesn't sell' and puts on 'boring fights.' He contrasted Evloev with entertainers like Jean Silva and Jon Jones, arguing that charisma and spectacle are more valuable than undefeated records. In contrast, Michael Bisping, via Sportscape Magazine, defended Evloev, arguing that he faced tough opponents and that his recent fight against Lerone Murphy was an entertaining, back-and-forth battle. Bisping noted that Evloev attempted a finish and fought on his feet, challenging the narrative that his style is purely passive. Demetrious Johnson also criticized Evloev for his lack of finishes, a view Aldo echoed, while Evloev himself has expressed a desire to win by decision over Volkanovski, rejecting the need for a finish.

Why it matters

This debate underscores the evolving priorities of the UFC, which is increasingly focused on marketability and entertainment value over traditional ranking systems. The potential release of an undefeated fighter like Evloev could set a precedent for how the promotion manages its roster, potentially leading to the removal of other high-ranked but low-entertainment fighters. It also highlights the tension between fan expectations for finishes and the reality of competitive, high-level MMA where decisions are common. The outcome of the Volkanovski-Evloev fight will be a key indicator of whether the UFC continues to prioritize spectacle or maintains its commitment to competitive integrity.

What to watch

The immediate next step is the UFC 333 main event on October 24, 2026, where Movsar Evloev will challenge Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title. If Evloev loses, Aldo’s prediction that he will be cut from the roster may come into focus, potentially leading to a significant roster shakeup. If Evloev wins, he will become the new champion, but his long-term future in the UFC may still be uncertain if he continues to avoid finishes. The UFC may also review its roster management policies in light of the public discourse surrounding Evloev’s contract status.