The win in Abu Dhabi handed previously unbeaten Movsar Evloev the first loss of his career.
Alexander Volkanovski retained his featherweight title Saturday night at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi, stopping Movsar Evloev at 4:54 of the second round. The result kept the belt around Volkanovski's waist and ended Evloev's run as an unbeaten contender.
Evloev took the defeat without complaint afterward, comparing Volkanovski to "good wine" in a nod to the champion continuing to perform at a high level as he ages in the sport. It was the first loss of Evloev's career, a result that will reset expectations for where he fits in the featherweight picture going forward.
The win was part of a card that saw a pair of champions successfully defend their titles in fights described as thrilling. For Volkanovski, the stoppage adds another defense to his featherweight reign and reinforces his standing at the top of the division heading into whatever challenge comes next.