Would Alexander Volkanovski Take on Diego Lopes in a fight? The Road to Redemption?
Alexander Volkanovski is a name that always commands attention in a world where UFC legends are created. Even after losing to Ilia Topuria in February 2024, Volkanovski is still fervently seeking retribution. Fans are intrigued, though: might he be up against young talent Diego Lopes next? While Lopes has soared to the top of the UFC featherweight division, Volkanovski has outlined specific conditions for his comeback, all of which depend on one crucial element.
The Skyrocketing Ascent of Diego Lopes
Diego Lopes may not have won his 2021 Contender Series match against Dana White, but it didn’t stop him from making history in the UFC. Since making his debut, Lopes has faced problems head-on like a real contender, winning over both critics and fans with an exciting flair that never ceased to amaze. Even though Lopes lost his fight against Movsar Evloev in May 2023 due to short notice, his perseverance paid off, gaining him recognition and a place in the UFC.
The Brazilian heavyweight has amassed an impressive five-bout winning streak since that battle, which included a convincing victory over former featherweight champion Brian Ortega. Lopes is now eyeing a title bout after his outstanding performance placed him among the top 3 UFC featherweight contenders. But one name is preventing him from succeeding: Alexander Volkanovski.
Volkanovski’s Exclusive Requirement for Taking Lopes
It’s evident that Volkanovski wants to return to the top of the UFC featherweight class, but he won’t accept any fight. Volkanovski revealed what motivated him to take on Lopes in a recent interview with Submission Radio: a chance to win the UFC featherweight title. Volkanovski noted that the stakes are bigger than ever and that he will only challenge Lopes if an interim or uncontested title is at issue.
“If something happens to the guys fighting at UFC 308, or if Max [Holloway] moves up a division or gets injured, and the UFC makes an interim title fight, then yeah, I’ll fight Lopes,” Volkanovski said.
“I’m not afraid of anyone, but it’s gotta be for the title.”
Holloway, Topuria, and the Prospect of an Interim Title
Volkanovski’s next bout depends on how Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria perform in their highly anticipated UFC 308 matchup. In addition to having a spot in the featherweight division, Holloway is also known as the BMF (Baddest Mother F*****). If Holloway prevails, there’s a potential he may go up in weight or look to compete in other weight classes, which might open the door for a bout for the interim featherweight title.
“What will Max do next if he wins? Will he fight for the featherweight title or go after a more significant goal with the BMF? That’s the kind of ambiguity that might give rise to a chance,”
Volkanovski pondered in the conversation. UFC fans would surely be excited by the prospect of an interim title match, which might lead to a bout between Volkanovski and Lopes for the highly sought-after title.
Lopes’ Dream: Winner Take All or Winner Drop Out
Diego Lopes saw his victory over Brian Ortega as a springboard to greater things. Lopes is ready for a title shot or a title eliminator after taking down a previous champion. However, Lopes is in an intriguing situation now that Volkanovski has established clear parameters; he is looking for a scenario that might match him up with one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.
Volkanovski: The Unwavering Winner
Despite Volkanovski’s hard-fought loss to Ilia Topuria, “The Great” has never given up. His career is proof of his perseverance, hard work, and unwavering resolve to succeed. Volkanovski’s single-minded objective on returning to the top is reinforced by his refusal to fight Lopes in a non-title match, since fans have observed him go through warfare inside the Octagon.
Volkanovski is not like some competitors who could view a battle with Lopes as a simple path back into the title picture. His path has always been about leaving a legacy rather than merely winning. The past champion’s willingness to wait for a championship match says a lot about his character. Volkanovski is determined to have the belt back around his waist and will do whatever it takes to get it.
The Unpredictable Future of the UFC
Expect the unexpected since every fight in the UFC changes the terrain. Anything can happen, even though Volkanovski’s future step is mostly dependent on the outcome of UFC 308. A possible meeting between Volkanovski and Lopes might be triggered by injuries, weight class changes, or promotional decisions that allow for an interim title battle.
