Despite not securing the featherweight championship at UFC 314, Diego Lopes is maintaining a positive outlook following his five-round match against Alexander Volkanovski, widely considered one of the greatest 145-pound fighters ever.
In just under two years since his debut in the octagon, Lopes quickly rose to prominence, headlining his first major event and challenging Volkanovski for a full five rounds. Lopes landed significant strikes throughout the fight, but ultimately Volkanovski was awarded the victory by unanimous decision, with judges` scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47.
The day after the fight, Lopes posted a brief message on social media addressing the outcome.
“Always keeping my head up and a smile on my face,” Lopes stated. “I came up short, and didn`t succeed in some aspects. I’m heading back to training to improve, correct my errors, and keep moving forward. Thank you everyone for the support. As I always say, “NOTHING HAPPENS.”
Lopes` performance was commendable, earning him a Fight of the Night award alongside Volkanovski. Volkanovski also achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first fighter over 35 to win a title in a division 155 pounds or lighter in the UFC.
Lopes appeared to start somewhat cautiously in the first round, which is unusual for his typically aggressive fighting style. However, he shifted gears in the second round, landing a powerful punch that briefly knocked Volkanovski down.
From that point forward, Lopes consistently fought for control in the cage, landing numerous impactful blows, as evidenced by Volkanovski`s visibly marked-up face after the fight.
Ultimately, despite a strong showing, Lopes lost on the judges` scorecards but respectfully acknowledged Volkanovski`s victory in his post-fight interview.
“It was an honor to share the octagon with a fighter like Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes commented. “But I will return. This is a very experienced fighter in the UFC. I can see my own progress. I am going to improve, I will come back, and I will become a champion.”
