Volkanovski vs. Lopes Rematch Set for UFC 325 on Jan. 31

UPDATE: A highly anticipated rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes will headline UFC 325 on January 31, 2024, at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. This featherweight title fight promises to be a thrilling showdown as UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the news just moments ago.

This match marks Volkanovski’s return to his home country of Australia, following his intense battle against Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 in February 2023. In that match, Volkanovski fought valiantly but fell short in a close unanimous decision. Fans are eagerly awaiting his next move as he aims for his second consecutive title defense against Lopes.

Volkanovski (27-4) previously defeated Lopes (27-27) by unanimous decision at UFC 314 in April, in a match that showcased the skills of both fighters. The judges scored that bout 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45, indicating a fiercely competitive clash. Lopes earned this rematch after a stunning knockout of Jean Silva in September, reigniting the excitement surrounding the featherweight division.

The announcement has left some featherweight contenders feeling sidelined. Movsar Evloev (19-0) and Lerone Murphy (17-0-1) expressed their frustrations on social media. Murphy lamented, “Missing the opportunity to fight one of the featherweights [GOATS] is what hurts me the most,” while Evloev offered to meet Murphy for a decisive fight on the same card as the championship bout.

With Evloev and Murphy ranked Nos. 1 and 4 in the division, respectively, their reactions highlight the competitive nature of the featherweight landscape. Lopes holds the No. 2 rank, intensifying the stakes of this upcoming rematch.

As fans count down to UFC 325, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a defining moment in both fighters’ careers. Don’t miss out on this pivotal match that could reshape the featherweight division. Stay tuned for further updates as fight night approaches!