Alexander Volkanovski made history at UFC 314, regaining his featherweight title after a hard-fought victory against Diego Lopes in the main event.
This win marks Volkanovski`s return to championship status, making him the first fighter over 35 to hold a UFC title in divisions 155 pounds or lighter. Despite facing some resistance, Volkanovski delivered a signature performance, outworking and outstriking Lopes over five rounds.
The judges` scorecards reflected Volkanovski`s dominance with scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47, crowning him a two-time featherweight champion.
“It’s great to be back,” Volkanovski expressed, belt in hand. “I’ve felt incredible support. I promised my daughters I’d bring the belt home. Many doubted me after two knockout losses. Returning to defeat a strong contender like Diego Lopes feels amazing. Adversity is a privilege, and this moment is incredible.”
“This is the stuff of books and movies. This is what it`s all about,” Volkanovski added, highlighting the significance of his comeback.
While Lopes didn`t achieve his desired outcome, he demonstrated his championship caliber in his first title opportunity. He accepted the defeat gracefully, vowing to return and conquer the division.
“It was an honor to share the octagon with Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes acknowledged. “But I’ll be back. He’s incredibly experienced in the UFC, and I see my own progress. I’m going to improve, come back, and become a champion.”
Volkanovski established control early, stunning Lopes with a powerful left hook in the opening exchanges. He followed up with a takedown and relentless ground strikes, overwhelming the challenger.
Volkanovski maintained his rhythm, picking his shots from distance, while Lopes struggled to mount significant offense. Another strong punch from Volkanovski staggered Lopes, though Lopes defended a subsequent takedown attempt.
Just as Volkanovski seemed in complete command, Lopes landed a shot that briefly dropped the champion. Volkanovski, visibly frustrated, returned to his feet as the round concluded.
Despite the setback at the end of the second round, Volkanovski regrouped effectively for the third. He landed solid combinations, including a sharp left hook that connected cleanly.
Lopes struggled to draw Volkanovski into a brawl, which was his preferred fight style. He briefly gained momentum with a straight left and right uppercut that wobbled Volkanovski.
Volkanovski, bothered by damage to his eye, retreated as Lopes pressed forward. However, Volkanovski remained composed and weathered the storm, returning to his corner.
Volkanovski informed his coaches of impaired vision during the round, which later cleared. In the final rounds, Volkanovski utilized his jab effectively and maintained distance, avoiding Lopes` power shots.
Volkanovski`s higher volume and accuracy proved decisive. Lopes displayed resilience, but couldn`t generate enough offense to secure the win. Over five rounds, Volkanovski landed more strikes and secured the victory.
This was a statement win for Volkanovski, silencing doubts that arose after his recent knockout losses. He stands once again as the featherweight champion, with a division full of contenders eager to challenge his reign.
