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

BREAKING: A highly anticipated featherweight title rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes is officially set to headline UFC 325 on January 31, 2024, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. UFC CEO Dana White announced the news just moments ago, igniting excitement among MMA fans worldwide.

This championship clash marks Volkanovski’s first fight in his home country since his narrow loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 in February 2023, where he fell in a gripping battle decided by unanimous decision. With a record of 27-4, Volkanovski is eager to defend his title for the second time against Lopes, who holds a record of 27-27.

The two fighters previously faced off at UFC 314 in April, where Volkanovski emerged victorious by unanimous decision, with judges scoring it 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45. Lopes, however, earned a rematch by delivering a stunning knockout against Jean Silva this past September, showcasing his readiness for another shot at the title.

The announcement has ignited a flurry of reactions from fellow featherweight contenders. Notably, Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy, currently ranked Nos. 1 and 4 in the division, expressed their disappointment on social media. Murphy lamented missing the chance to fight one of the featherweight greats, stating, “Missing the opportunity to fight one of the featherweights [GOATS] is what hurts me the most.”

Evloev, eager to secure a title shot, reached out to Murphy, proposing a matchup in early 2026, saying, “Tell your people [you’re] ready to fight me on the same card as the championship.”

This rematch between Volkanovski and Lopes is not just a fight; it’s a defining moment in the featherweight division, with implications for both fighters and their future in the sport. As the clock ticks down to UFC 325, fans are left to wonder who will emerge victorious in this pivotal showdown.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling event approaches!