Alexander Volkanovski made a triumphant return at UFC 314, winning a hard-fought battle against Diego Lopes to once again become the featherweight champion in the main event.
This victory marks Volkanovski`s second reign as champion. He also sets a new record as the oldest fighter over 35 to hold a UFC title at 155 pounds or less. Despite facing a strong challenge, Volkanovski showcased his veteran skills, outperforming and out-striking Lopes throughout the five rounds.
The judges` scorecards reflected Volkanovski`s dominance with scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47, officially crowning him a two-time featherweight champion.
“It’s great to be back on top,” Volkanovski expressed after receiving the championship belt. “I felt incredible support from everyone. I promised my daughters I would bring the belt home. Many doubted me after two knockout losses, but I came back to defeat a tough opponent like Diego Lopes. This comeback is special. Adversity is a privilege. This moment is amazing.”
“This is the kind of story that inspires books and movies. This is what it’s all about.”
Although the result wasn`t in his favor, Lopes proved himself a formidable contender in his first UFC title opportunity. He accepted the loss with grace and vowed to return stronger and eventually become a champion.
“It was an honor to share the octagon with Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes acknowledged. “He is incredibly experienced in the UFC. I know I`m improving, and I will come back to claim that championship one day.”
Volkanovski started the fight strong, landing a powerful left hook early on that stunned Lopes. He followed up with a takedown and continued to pressure Lopes, who seemed overwhelmed by the former champion`s offense.
Volkanovski controlled the pace, effectively picking his shots from a distance, while Lopes struggled to mount a significant counter-attack. Another strong punch from Volkanovski staggered Lopes, but Lopes managed to defend against a subsequent takedown attempt.
Just when Volkanovski seemed to be in complete control, Lopes landed a shot that briefly knocked Volkanovski down. Volkanovski appeared frustrated as the round ended, realizing he had been caught.
Despite the setback at the end of the second round, Volkanovski regained his composure and executed a solid strategy in the third. He landed effective combinations, including a sharp left hook that connected with Lopes` jaw.
Lopes struggled to draw Volkanovski into the kind of chaotic brawl he desired. He finally managed to land a combination – a straight left followed by a right uppercut – that momentarily stunned Volkanovski and forced him back.
Volkanovski was seen wiping his eye, indicating damage taken, and Lopes pressed forward, attempting to capitalize. However, Volkanovski remained composed, preventing Lopes from gaining a significant advantage and making it back to his corner.
Volkanovski informed his coaches that his vision was impaired during the round, but it recovered. In the final round, Volkanovski utilized his jab effectively and maintained distance, avoiding Lopes` power strikes.
Volkanovski`s higher volume and accuracy in striking proved decisive. Despite Lopes` toughness and forward pressure, he couldn`t inflict enough damage to secure the win. Over five rounds, Volkanovski landed more strikes, securing his victory.
It was a highly impressive performance from Volkanovski, who faced doubts for the first time in his UFC career after two consecutive knockout losses. He now stands once again as the champion, with a growing list of featherweight contenders eager to challenge him.
Marcus Blakely