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

BREAKING NEWS: A highly anticipated featherweight title rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes has just been confirmed to headline UFC 325 on January 31, 2024, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. This announcement comes directly from UFC CEO Dana White, stirring excitement among fans and fighters alike.

This matchup marks Volkanovski’s first fight back in his home country since his nail-biting loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 284 in February 2023, where he lost by a narrow unanimous decision. Volkanovski, boasting a record of 27-4, aims to secure his second consecutive title defense against Lopes, who has a professional record of 27-27.

In their previous encounter at UFC 314 in April, Volkanovski emerged victorious via unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45. Lopes earned this rematch opportunity after a stunning knockout victory over Jean Silva in September, showcasing his readiness to reclaim the title.

The announcement has left several featherweight contenders, including Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy, expressing frustration. Evloev, currently ranked No. 1 in the division with a record of 19-0, reached out to Murphy, ranked No. 4 with 17-0-1, proposing a fight to determine the next title challenger. Murphy shared his disappointment on social media, stating, “Missing the opportunity to fight one of the featherweights [GOATS] is what hurts me the most.”

As the fight date approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting further developments and other possible matchups within the featherweight division. With Volkanovski and Lopes both in their prime, this rematch promises to be a thrilling event, and fight enthusiasts will not want to miss it.

Stay tuned for updates as the fight night draws closer, and the atmosphere in Sydney intensifies. What will this rematch mean for the future of the featherweight division? Only time will tell, but the stakes have never been higher.