The upcoming UFC 325 event, taking place on January 31 in Sydney, has sparked considerable criticism due to its headline bout. UFC president Dana White has openly challenged fans who disapprove of the main event, daring them to skip the fight if they are dissatisfied with the matchup. The bout features Alexander Volkanovski defending his featherweight title against Diego Lopes, marking the only undisputed championship fight in the UFC’s early 2026 schedule.
Controversy Surrounding Volkanovski’s Rematch with Diego Lopes
Following the conclusion of UFC 324 in Las Vegas, the UFC is set to kick off its first Paramount-era card in Australia with UFC 325. The main event reunites Australia’s top MMA star, Alexander Volkanovski, with Diego Lopes, who he previously defeated at UFC 314 last April. Despite Volkanovski’s recent comeback from knockout losses, fans expected him to face newer challengers like Lerone Murphy or Movsar Evloev, both undefeated and highly regarded contenders.
Instead, the UFC opted for a rematch against Lopes, a decision that has drawn frustration from fans, athletes, and analysts alike. Lopes has secured only one victory since his initial title shot, an entertaining win against Jean Silva. Yet, his fighting style and marketability seemingly influenced the UFC’s matchmaking choice, leaving many questioning the quality of the main event.
Dana White has remained indifferent to the backlash, emphasizing pragmatism in the matchmaking process.
“If you don’t like it, don’t watch it,”
White stated during an interview with Complex. He further explained,
“It was just the fight that made sense. We get in that (War) Room and we start putting s— together.”
White believes the fight will deliver excitement, adding,
“It should be a good fight.”
White’s Defiant Stance on UFC 325’s Criticism
Despite the negative reaction, Dana White appears unfazed and encourages fans to follow their own preferences, even if that means turning away from UFC 325. His blunt advice reflects his confidence in the promotion’s matchmaking decisions, regardless of public dissent. White’s message underscores a disconnect between the UFC’s internal planning and fans’ expectations ahead of the event.
Volkanovski Addresses Retirement Rumors Ahead of Title Defense
Speculation has also surrounded Alexander Volkanovski’s future in the sport, with some suggesting UFC 325 could be his last fight. However, the featherweight champion dismissed such talk during an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show. He clarified that retirement is not on his immediate horizon, explaining,
“I don’t know where (the retirement rumors) came from exactly.”
Volkanovski added,
“If I were to get beaten up, would I come back to fight? No. But that’s not in my plans. Unless things go horrendously wrong, I’m planning on going back out there.”
He also expressed confidence in his ability to maintain his health and continue competing:
“Right now, I plan on everything going well, getting my hand raised and taking minimal damage so I can have a quick turnaround and continue fighting.”
Implications of UFC 325 and What Lies Ahead
UFC 325 holds significant weight as the lone undisputed title event during the first quarter of 2026, but fan disappointment regarding the matchup has cast a shadow over the promotion’s start to the year. Dana White’s dismissive tone towards criticism may impact the event’s viewership, as some fans consider taking his advice to avoid the card. Meanwhile, Volkanovski’s stance on continuing his career keeps anticipation alive for future featherweight clashes.
The UFC faces ongoing challenges balancing fighter merit, marketability, and fan expectations as it navigates its Paramount partnership and prepares for subsequent events like UFC 326 in March. The decisions made for UFC 325 and their reception could influence how the promotion approaches matchmaking moving forward, making the January 31 event a pivotal moment for both the featherweight division and UFC’s broader strategy in 2026.
