Diego Lopes plans to fight more freely and enjoy the moment in his rematch against Alexander Volkanovski for the UFC featherweight title, aiming for a decisive finish after learning from their first encounter.
Diego Lopes picked up valuable lessons from his first UFC title shot against Alexander Volkanovski. However, he realized he missed a crucial element he plans to remember for his second chance.
Lopes is set to challenge Volkanovski again for the featherweight title at UFC 325. This rematch is scheduled for January 31 at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, and will stream live on Paramount+.
Their initial bout for the vacant belt at UFC 324 was a thrilling encounter. Volkanovski emerged victorious with a unanimous decision, becoming a two-time champion. Lopes, speaking to Main Event TV, believes he needs a decisive finish, especially with Volkanovski on home turf.
“Bro, I’m fighting in enemy territory,” Lopes said. “I need to finish this fight with a submission or knockout… that’s my goal. My goal is to finish him.”
Volkanovski faces Lopes in consecutive fights. Lopes earned his second chance with a stunning stoppage win over Jean Silva at Noche UFC in San Antonio this past September.
In his ninth octagon appearance, Lopes has become a fan favorite. He made a splash by dropping a competitive decision in a short-notice fight against the undefeated Movsar Evloev at UFC 288 in May 2023. After five straight wins, including against Dan Ige and Brian Ortega, Lopes earned the right to fight for the belt vacated by Ilia Topuria, who moved up to lightweight.
Now, Lopes feels he can fight more freely, something he missed in their first matchup.
“This time, it’s different,” Lopes explained. “I’m more loose, there’s no pressure. The first time I fought Volk, I only aimed for a knockout. I forgot many things in that fight. Most importantly, I forgot to enjoy the moment.”
“If people see the video before the fight… I’m so serious. Those who know me, know I’m never serious. I’m always smiling, joking around. So this time, I’ll just enjoy the moment. When I enjoy the moment, I’m the most dangerous guy in the division.”