Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes faced off in a compelling main event at UFC 314, held on April 12th at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The fight was broadcast live on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
Volkanovski demonstrated his superior skill and experience, ultimately winning by unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46, all in favor of Volkanovski.
Round 1
Marc Goddard officiated the main event. Volkanovski started quickly, displaying agility and sharpness with leg kicks. He initiated the offense, landing a strong left hand, but Lopes countered with a precise right. Volkanovski pressed forward, receiving body shots from Lopes. Volkanovski connected with a right hand and then a left, appearing to hurt Lopes. He then secured a takedown, controlling Lopes against the fence and landing punches from the ground. Volkanovski dominated the round.
Round 2
Lopes came out aggressively but seemed hesitant. Volkanovski controlled the distance with jabs and leg kicks. Lopes stuffed a takedown attempt and landed a straight left. Volkanovski continued with leg kicks and a strong right hand. Lopes landed two jabs but needed more offense. Volkanovski connected with a heavy right, staggering Lopes. Towards the end of the round, Lopes landed a significant right hand that appeared to be a knockdown as the round concluded. Lopes won the round.
Round 3
Volkanovski used his jab effectively, making Lopes swing wildly. Volkanovski targeted Lopes` lead leg with kicks and landed a sharp right hand. Lopes moved forward, absorbing damage as Volkanovski retreated tactically. Volkanovski continued to land counter rights as Lopes advanced. While Lopes attempted a head kick, Volkanovski absorbed it and maintained control, winning the round.
Round 4
Volkanovski displayed fast hands and effective jabs. Lopes struggled to close the distance. Volkanovski`s counter right hand repeatedly slowed Lopes` advances. Lopes connected with a right uppercut and avoided takedowns. Lopes landed another right, possibly causing a cut over Volkanovski`s eye. Despite good moments from Lopes, Volkanovski likely edged out the round with his consistent offense and control.
Round 5
Volkanovski continued to utilize his counter right hand effectively. Lopes attempted to engage more aggressively, and while he had moments, Volkanovski consistently landed the more impactful strikes. Volkanovski used a 1-2 combination to set up his right hand, which Lopes absorbed. Volkanovski attempted a takedown, but Lopes defended it. In the final minute, Volkanovski secured the round and the fight with more jabs and a strong right hand.
Ultimately, Alexander Volkanovski secured a unanimous decision victory over Diego Lopes in an exciting and competitive UFC 314 main event.
