On April 12, two distinctly different fighters will step into the Octagon for the UFC 314 main event. Former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski returns to the spotlight, aiming to reassert his dominance, while rising star Diego Lopes sees this as his moment.
With the vacant UFC featherweight title up for grabs, Volkanovski is on a mission to win and reclaim the title. After a dominant title reign that included five successful defenses, Volkanovski (26-4-0) now finds himself in unfamiliar territory.
The 36-year-old Aussie has dropped three of his last four fights, including two at lightweight against Islam Makhachev. But his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 truly rattled the featherweight division and cost him his belt.
On the other hand, after a tough debut loss in 2023, Lopes (26-6-0) has rattled off five straight victories, showcasing his lethal mix of submissions and strikes. Recently, the 30-year-old Brazilian had an impressive win over veteran Brian Ortega. Still relatively new to the UFC spotlight, Lopes is excited for his first shot at a belt: "I have a great opportunity on my hands. I'm ready for a big fight [against] Alex."
Stylistically, this matchup offers a fascinating clash. Volkanovski is a disciplined counter-striker who averages over six significant strikes per minute with impressive accuracy. He blends his striking with underrated wrestling and a strong takedown defense.
Lopes, meanwhile, with 12 wins by submission, is skilled at taking down opponents and transitioning between stand-up and ground combat. If he can capitalize on a moment of vulnerability from Volkanovski, we could see a new champion crowned.
Stylistically, this matchup offers a fascinating clash. Volkanovski is a disciplined counter-striker who averages over six significant strikes per minute with impressive accuracy. He blends his striking with underrated wrestling and a strong takedown defense.
Lopes, meanwhile, with 12 wins by submission, is skilled at taking down opponents and transitioning between stand-up and ground combat. If he can capitalize on a moment of vulnerability from Volkanovski, we could see a new champion crowned.
Looking at UFC 314 fight predictions for Volkanovski vs. Lopes, trusted sportsbooks have picked Volkanovski as the favorite. BetMGM currently have the number one ranked contender sitting at -135 odds against number three ranked Lopes, who enters as a +110 underdog.
Whether it's a legacy restored or a new one born, UFC 314 promises fireworks when Volkanovski and Lopes meet in Miami.
