Alexander Volkanovski Reclaims Featherweight Title at UFC 314
On April 12, 2025, Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski solidified his legacy as one of the UFC’s all-time great featherweights by recapturing the 145-pound title in a thrilling main event against Diego Lopes at UFC 314 in Miami’s Kaseya Center. The unanimous decision victory (48-47, 49-46, 49-46) marked Volkanovski’s return to the championship throne, making him the first fighter under 155 pounds to win a UFC title over the age of 35 and only the second featherweight, alongside José Aldo, to reclaim the belt after losing it.
The featherweight title was up for grabs after Ilia Topuria, who knocked out Volkanovski in February 2024 to end his championship reign, vacated the belt to pursue lightweight ambitions. Volkanovski, coming off back-to-back knockout losses to Topuria and lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, faced questions about whether his prime had passed. Meanwhile, Lopes, riding a five-fight win streak, aimed to seize the moment and establish himself as the division’s new king.
The fight was a five-round war that showcased both fighters’ skills and resilience. Volkanovski started strong, dominating the first round with crisp striking and a rare takedown, battering Lopes with ground-and-pound. His jab and movement kept Lopes at bay early, but the Brazilian rallied in the second, landing a clean right hand that dropped Volkanovski momentarily—a flashpoint that had the crowd roaring. Lopes opened a cut under Volkanovski’s eye, but the Australian veteran stayed composed, using footwork and counters to regain control.
As the rounds progressed, Lopes’ aggression kept the fight competitive, but Volkanovski’s experience shone through. By the fifth round, his sharp striking and cage generalship secured the victory, earning him the title and a Fight of the Night bonus.
At 36, Volkanovski defied the odds. No fighter had ever won a UFC title after consecutive losses, let alone knockouts, and his 14-month layoff—the longest of his nine-year UFC career—added to the challenge. Yet, Volkanovski’s performance was a masterclass, blending technical precision with heart. He landed 96 significant strikes to Lopes’ 84 and controlled the pace, proving he remains a force at featherweight.
Post-fight, Volkanovski celebrated with his trademark confidence, saying, “I knew I had more to give. This is just the start of the next chapter.” His win moves his record to 27-4, with 13-3 in the UFC, and cements his status as a two-time featherweight champion.
Diego Lopes, despite the loss, earned respect with his relentless pressure and dangerous moments. The 30-year-old dropped to 26-7 but showed he belongs among the elite. “It was an honor to share the Octagon with a guy like Alexander Volkanovski,” Lopes said through a translator. “I’ll be back. I’m going to train better and become a champion.” With only two years in the UFC, Lopes’ future is bright, and a rematch down the line wouldn’t surprise anyone.
Volkanovski’s victory resets the featherweight division. Potential challengers include Movsar Evloev, Yair Rodriguez (who dominated Patricio Pitbull on the same card), or even a rematch with Topuria if he returns to 145 pounds. Volkanovski has also hinted at a possible fight in Sydney in 2025, which could pit him against a top contender or longtime rival Max Holloway, whom he’s beaten three times.
For now, Volkanovski basks in his hard-earned glory. UFC 314 wasn’t just a win—it was a statement that “The Great” is far from done.
