Alexander Volkanovski insists that Diego Lopes faced a difficult challenge in their recent UFC rematch, which took place at UFC 325 in Sydney earlier this month. Despite Lopes’ desire to claim the featherweight championship in a chance for redemption, Volkanovski maintained that the stylistic matchup strongly favored him, ultimately limiting Lopes’ opportunity to win the title.
Volkanovski, known as “The Great,” defended his featherweight belt once again by defeating Lopes in a contest reminiscent of their first fight the previous year. Lopes had voiced that UFC 325 might be his final chance to capture the 145-pound championship after already being defeated by Volkanovski, but the champion believes the odds were always stacked against the challenger due to his own fighting style and skills.
Volkanovski Reflects on Lopes Missing His Championship Opportunity
During an interview on the MightyCast with Demetrious Johnson, Volkanovski described himself as potentially the toughest matchup Lopes could face. He explained that his superior fight IQ and footwork created challenges that Lopes struggled to overcome in both bouts.
I feel bad because I’m probably the worst possible matchup for the guy just because of my IQ and my footwork and whatnot that he just couldn’t handle,
Volkanovski told Demetrious Johnson.
So, now he’s pretty much wasted his chance at the title against me in a quick turnaround where I was probably the only guy that can do 50 minutes and just have him not knowing what’s going on.
Volkanovski also expressed concern that scheduling the rematch less than a year after their first fight may not have been beneficial for Lopes, despite giving him a shot at compensation for his previous loss. According to the champion, Lopes failed to implement an effective strategy to cut off the Octagon in the second fight, an area where he needed clear improvement.
It was literally like he was told to be patient and use his jab but there was no actual strategy behind it… Hearing him say that he’s grown so much, I’m looking at him like you haven’t,
Volkanovski said.
I don’t mean this in a bad way I just mean you haven’t showed me any improvement. I felt like what you did in the first fight was better than that.
Performance Statistics Highlight Volkanovski’s Dominance Over Lopes
Volkanovski’s command of distance and his consistent output have long been recognized as among the sport’s best, a reality reflected in both of his fights against Diego Lopes. During their initial encounter, Volkanovski outlanded Lopes significantly, connecting with 158 significant strikes compared to Lopes’ 63.
Although Lopes showed some signs of progress in their UFC 325 match—managing 70 significant strikes to Volkanovski’s 98 and even dropping the champion during the third round—these adjustments were not enough to sway the judges. Lopes won only two of the 15 rounds across the three judges’ scorecards, confirming Volkanovski’s control throughout the fight.
What Lies Ahead for Diego Lopes After His Title Defeat?
Following a second loss to Volkanovski, questions remain about Lopes’ path forward in the featherweight division. His inability to capitalize on the opportunity to claim the championship hints at the uphill battle he faces as he attempts to evolve and challenge top contenders once again.
The performances and results underscore Volkanovski’s growing reputation as a champion who is difficult to outmatch, particularly due to his tactical awareness and endurance. This dominance cements Volkanovski’s place firmly at the top of the division while leaving Lopes and other challengers with the task of overcoming significant skill gaps if they hope to dethrone him in the future.
