Dillashaw Says Evloev Gave Up After Volkanovski Reversal

Former UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw believes Movsar Evloev quit on himself during his featherweight title loss to Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 333.

Volkanovski stopped the previously unbeaten Evloev in the main event, a result that surprised many observers given how decisively the Australian finished the fight. Dillashaw told the JAXXON PODCAST, per MMA Junkie, that he spotted the exact moment Evloev's confidence evaporated — a scramble in the second round where Volkanovski escaped a takedown and reversed position to land on top.

When Dillashaw Says Evloev Lost Faith

That sequence drained Evloev's belief he could win, according to Dillashaw. The Russian absorbed heavy punches afterward and appeared to surrender rather than fight his way out, Dillashaw said, despite not being badly hurt. "He just kind of gave up and covered," Dillashaw said.

Dillashaw had wagered heavily on Volkanovski before the bout, saying he was shocked the former champion wasn't a bigger favorite. He credited Volkanovski's footwork and scrambling ability as factors that would neutralize Evloev's wrestling, noting that even Islam Makhachev struggled to control the Australian on the ground during their lightweight title fight.

The opening round played out competitively, Dillashaw said, but the scramble changed everything. Once Evloev realized the wrestling advantage wouldn't materialize, his mental framework collapsed. Dillashaw contrasted Evloev's reaction with what he believes a true title contender does when adversity strikes.

Volkanovski has since defended Evloev against harsh critiques of the performance. The former champion is expected to announce his next title defense in the coming weeks.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Former UFC champion believes Movsar Evloev gave up in Alexander Volkanovski defeat