Alexander Volkanovski made history at UFC 314, securing a victory in a hard-fought battle against Diego Lopes and reclaiming the featherweight title in the main event.
This victory re-establishes Volkanovski as champion, making him the first fighter over 35 to hold a UFC title in divisions up to 155 pounds. Despite facing challenges, Volkanovski showcased his skill, outperforming Lopes in striking and activity throughout all five rounds.
The judges` scorecards read 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47, confirming Volkanovski`s victory and his second featherweight title reign.
“It`s great to be back,” Volkanovski stated, as the belt was once again placed around his waist. “I`ve never felt so much love. All week, I said I promised my daughters I would bring the belt back to them. I think the message is that many people counted me out after two knockout losses. To come back and defeat a formidable opponent like Diego Lopes. It`s great to be back. Adversity is a privilege. This moment is incredible. This is the stuff of books and movies. That`s what it`s all about.”
Although not the outcome Lopes desired, he delivered a strong performance in his first UFC title opportunity. He offered no excuses post-fight, vowing to reach the top before his career concludes. “It was an honor to share the octagon with a fighter like Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes commented. “But I will be back. He is a very experienced UFC fighter. I can see myself getting closer. I will improve, return, and become a champion.”
A swift start allowed Volkanovski to dictate the fight`s pace, landing a powerful left hook on Lopes early on, visibly staggering the challenger. Volkanovski followed up with a takedown and unleashed strikes on Lopes, who appeared overwhelmed and unable to respond to the champion`s offense.
Volkanovski found his rhythm, delivering strikes from range, while Lopes struggled to mount his own offense. Another powerful blow from Volkanovski rocked Lopes again, forcing him back towards the cage, though he successfully defended against a subsequent takedown attempt.
Just when Volkanovski seemed in complete control, Lopes landed a shot that momentarily dropped the Australian to the canvas. As Volkanovski rose to his feet at the round`s end, he appeared visibly frustrated at being caught by the punch that knocked him down.
Despite the disappointing end to the second round, Volkanovski recovered effectively and returned with a renewed strategy in the third. Volkanovski landed several solid combinations, including a stiff left hook that connected with Lopes` jaw.
Lopes struggled to draw Volkanovski into a brawl, which was his desired fight type. Only when he initiated an exchange was he able to land a straight left followed by a right uppercut, which wobbled Volkanovski and forced him to retreat.
Volkanovski began wiping his eye due to the damage sustained, and Lopes surged forward, attempting to secure a finish. Despite the challenging situation, Volkanovski remained composed and prevented Lopes from capitalizing before returning to his corner.
In his corner, Volkanovski informed his coaches of impaired vision during the round, which had improved by round`s end. This became evident in the final five minutes as Volkanovski continued to attack Lopes with a sharp jab while evading his power punches.
Volkanovski`s volume and precision proved decisive, as Lopes continued to press forward but couldn`t inflict significant damage. Over five rounds, Volkanovski landed more strikes, while Lopes showcased impressive durability but lacked the offensive output needed for victory.
It was an exceptionally impressive performance from Volkanovski, who faced doubts for the first time in his UFC career following two consecutive knockout losses. Now, he stands tall as champion once more, with a growing list of featherweight contenders eager to challenge him.
