UFC 325: Preview and suggested bets for Alexander Volkanovski vs Diego Lopes and more
Can UFC 325 live up to the hype of last weekend? Will Alexander Volkanovski further cement his legacy in the featherweight division? What does the return of Tai Tuivasa after nearly two years mean?
It’s another landmark event in the UFC this weekend as Volkanovski fights in Australia once more as part of his second title defence against Diego Lopes.
Fellow Aussies Dan Hooker and Tai Tuivasa join Volkanovski on the main card, with ‘The Hangman’ looking to bounce back from a heavy loss to Arman Tsarukyan just over two months ago.
Alexander Volkanovski reacts as controversial Diego Lopes rematch confirmed for UFC 325
Alexander Volkanovski is set to defend his featherweight title against Diego Lopes in Sydney at UFC 325 on January 31, 2026.
The pair initially met back in April 2025 at UFC 314, where Volkanovski defeated Lopes by unanimous decision to claim the belt that was recently vacated by Ilia Topuria at the time.
It was arguably the feel-good moment of the year, as a 36-year-old Volkanovski snapped his two-fight losing streak against all odds to become a two-time champion at 145 pounds.
However, the decision for the Australian to rematch Lopes for the first title defence of his second reign has sparked controversy within the MMA community, with Volkanovski having his say on his upcoming bout.
Here, Sports News Blitz's Niall Togher breaks down the reaction from both men and the controversy surrounding the rematch.
MMA news: Diego Lopes to beat Alexander Volkanovski for featherweight title at UFC 314
UFC 314 is set to take place in Miami on Saturday and promises to be the biggest card of 2025 so far, with three incredible match-ups sure to excite.
Sports News Blitz writer Niall Togher previews all the action and predicts the winners.