Alexander Volkanovski has once again asserted his dominance in the featherweight division.
Despite being 36 years old and coming off two consecutive losses, Volkanovski demonstrated his enduring skill by securing a decisive victory over Diego Lopes. This win earned him the vacant 145-pound title. Volkanovski previously lost the belt to Ilia Topuria via knockout in February 2024. However, with Topuria`s move to the lightweight division, the featherweight championship became available once more.
Volkanovski lived up to expectations, outperforming the younger Lopes throughout the five rounds. He withstood a late surge from Lopes in the second round and ultimately won by unanimous decision. Two judges scored the fight 49-46 in favor of “The Great.” This victory marks Volkanovski`s first win since his successful title defense against Yair Rodriguez at UFC 290 in July 2023.
Fellow fighters expressed their excitement at Volkanovski`s impressive return to form, with Aljamain Sterling proclaiming, “The king is back!”
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely