Fact Check: Has Movsar Evloev announced withdrawal from the clash with Lerone Murphy at UFC London

Movsar Evloev has dismissed rumours suggesting he might pull out of his upcoming fight against Lerone Murphy at UFC London. Reports earlier this week claimed the undefeated Russian could miss the bout due to visa problems. The fight is scheduled to take place at the O2 Arena next Saturday. However, Evloev quickly responded to the speculation and assured fans that everything is on track.The fight between the two unbeaten featherweights has drawn major attention. Many believe the winner could become the next title challenger in the division. Current champion Alexander Volkanovski may defend his belt against the victor. With both fighters holding impressive records, the matchup is widely viewed as a potential title eliminator in the UFC’s featherweight division.Rumours began circulating earlier this week that Movsar Evloev might miss the fight due to visa complications. These reports suggested that his long absence from the octagon could continue. The Russian fighter has not competed since December 2024 because of injuries, making fans eager for his return.Evloev quickly addressed the speculation through a message on social media. He assured supporters that there were no problems with his travel documents and that he remains focused on the upcoming bout. In his message, he urged fans not to believe rumours and confirmed his determination to compete and win the fight.“Don’t listen to unreliable sources. Everything’s fine with the visa. We’re going for victory.”Speculation grew even stronger after comments from Jean Silva, who is ranked sixth in the featherweight division. Silva posted a short video on his Instagram story hinting that major news was coming soon. His statement led some fans to wonder whether he might replace Evloev in the London main event.“I’m the next champion and you’re going to have to see this.”Despite the rumours, Murphy appeared relaxed as the fight approaches. The Manchester fighter shared a video of himself training in the gym as the event draws closer. It will be his third UFC main event appearance.Murphy enters the fight on a strong nine-fight winning streak. His professional record stands at 17-0-1. Meanwhile, Evloev is also undefeated with a record of 19-0, making the matchup one of the most intriguing in the featherweight division.Evloev’s last fight ended in a close decision victory against former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling. Murphy, on the other hand, last fought in August, where he knocked out Aaron Pico with a spectacular spinning back elbow.