UPDATE: A highly anticipated rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes is confirmed to headline UFC 325 on January 31, 2024, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. UFC CEO Dana White announced this thrilling matchup just moments ago, igniting excitement among MMA fans worldwide.
This featherweight title fight marks Volkanovski’s first return to his home country of Australia since his heart-stopping lightweight title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 in February 2023. In that match, Volkanovski fought valiantly, losing by a narrow unanimous decision. With a record of 27-4, Volkanovski is eager to defend his title for the second consecutive time against Lopes, who holds a record of 27-27.
The rematch comes after Volkanovski’s previous victory over Lopes at UFC 314 in April, where he secured a unanimous decision win with judges scoring 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45. Lopes, however, earned his shot at redemption by knocking out Jean Silva in a stunning fashion this past September, compelling the UFC to schedule this rematch.
The announcement has left several top featherweight contenders feeling the sting of disappointment. Movsar Evloev (record: 19-0) and Lerone Murphy (record: 17-0-1) took to social media expressing their frustrations over missing this opportunity. Murphy lamented, “Missing the opportunity to fight one of the featherweights [GOATS] is what hurts me the most,” highlighting the emotional impact of this matchup.
Evloev, ranked No. 1 in the division, responded by challenging Murphy to a fight in early 2026, suggesting, “Tell your people [you’re] ready to fight me on the same card as the championship.” With Lopes currently ranked No. 2, the stakes have never been higher in this division.
The significance of this fight extends beyond personal rivalries; it is a pivotal moment in the featherweight landscape, with title implications that could shape the future of the division. Fans and fighters alike are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying event.
Stay tuned for more updates as UFC 325 approaches. The anticipation is palpable, and this rematch could redefine the careers of both Volkanovski and Lopes.
