UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria recently knocked out Max Holloway at UFC 308, cementing his dominance. Afterward, former champion Alexander Volkanovski pushed for a title rematch, seeking to reclaim his throne. However, rising contender Diego Lopes has other plans and hopes to challenge, which could ruin Volkanovski’s plan.
Topuria defeated Volkanovski and Holloway in the same year, making him a top contender for ‘Fighter of the Year.’ After a busy stretch, the champ mentioned taking a break and defending his title next in Spain. This delay means Volkanovski must wait longer for his rematch. To solve the issue, Diego Lopes suggested that Dana White should book him against Volk in Sydney instead.
Ilia mentioned on Saturday night that he wanted to take some time off, also the UFC mentioned that they’re working on a date for Spain, while this is all going on, it makes the most sense for me to fight Volkanovski in Sydney for the interim title.
Diego Lopes via The Ariel Helwani Show
Volkanovski is well known for being busy and not taking long breaks. Though this habit has cost him a few devastating defeats, his last fight was back in February. The Aussie fighter has already shared his intentions to fight Lopes in an interim clash, and fans are excited about the battle.
Diego Lopes wants to fight Alexander Volkanovski for an interim title in February at #UFC312 in Sydney 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 29, 2024
Volkanovski has only won once in his last four fights, but it would be foolish to discredit his ability. On the other hand, Lopes is the new blood and currently has incredible momentum with five consecutive wins. The Brazilian has also envisioned himself fighting for the belt in the future.
Diego Lopes predicts his potential fight against Ilia Topuria
Ilia Topuria has emerged as a dominant force in the UFC featherweight category, demonstrating a diverse skill set. He is known for his knockout power and elite grappling, and he has yet to lose an MMA fight. His most recent triumphs against legendary fighters have demonstrated his striking accuracy, persistent pressure, and versatility.
Topuria’s ability to combine his fighting skills and trash-talking ability has made him the next big superstar in the promotion. Many fans don’t think other featherweight contenders have any chances against the ‘El Matador.’ However, Diego Lopes is confident about getting a win but isn’t fully ignorant.
We both have very heavy hands. It would be a very good fight. Anyone of us could drop at any moment.
Diego Lopes via The Ariel Helwani Show
“We both have very heavy hands. It would be a very good fight. Anyone of us could drop at any moment.” @DiegoLopesMMA on a potential fight with Ilia Topuria 👀 pic.twitter.com/lcwxVNTmES
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 29, 2024
Similar to Topuria, Lopes also has a great combination of striking and ground game. The BJJ black belt has 12 submission wins and ten knockout victories. While he will be the underdog going into the fight, the fighter does have a chance to deliver an upset.
