Diego Lopes faced Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 314 for the featherweight title but didn`t secure the win. However, he is not discouraged after battling for five rounds with Volkanovski, widely considered one of the greatest featherweights ever.
In his first UFC main event, less than two years after his debut in the octagon, Lopes went the distance with Volkanovski, delivering a strong challenge over five rounds. Despite landing significant hits, the judges ultimately favored Volkanovski with scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47.
Lopes addressed his loss in a brief social media statement on Sunday.
“Always with my head held high, a smile on my face,” Lopes stated. “I fell short last night, I failed in certain aspects. I’m going back to training, improve, fix my mistakes, and move forward. Thank you for all the support. As I always say, ‘NOTHING HAPPENS.’”
Lopes` performance was commendable, earning him the Fight of the Night honor against Volkanovski. Volkanovski`s victory also marked a historic moment as he became the first fighter over 35 to win a title in a division of 155 pounds or less in the UFC.
Lopes appeared to have a slower start in the first round, which is unusual for his typically aggressive style. However, he rebounded in the second round, staggering Volkanovski with a strong punch and briefly taking him down.
From that point on, Lopes consistently fought hard against Volkanovski, landing numerous powerful strikes, evident in Volkanovski`s bruised face after the fight.
Despite the loss, Lopes acknowledged Volkanovski`s performance in his post-fight octagon interview.
“It was an honor to share the octagon with Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes said. “But I will return. He is a very experienced fighter in the UFC. I can see my progress. I’m going to improve, come back, and become a champion.”
