Overview
- Alexander Volkanovski will defend the featherweight title against Diego Lopes in a rematch headlining UFC 325 on Jan. 31 at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney.
- Volkanovski said he wants to make a statement in his first defense of this reign and show he is still the dominant champion fans remember.
- Lopes said he overhauled his camp by securing a private gym to cut distractions and told Australian fans that "the knockout is coming."
- Matchmaking scrutiny continues as many point to unbeaten contenders Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy, and Dana White responded, "If you don't like it, don't watch it."
- Lopes said he would accept a trilogy with Volkanovski if he wins and is also targeting Evloev or Murphy, while Volkanovski has discussed a quick turnaround against one of them.