Alexander Volkanovski Hilariously Apologizes for Violating Diego Lopes by Sitting On His Face at UFC 325

Alexander Volkanovski highlights how he did not realize what he was doing during the viral moment from his UFC 325 fight against Diego Lopes.

Alexander Volkanovski Hilariously Apologizes for Violating Diego Lopes by Sitting On His Face at UFC 325

Alexander Volkanovski apologizes to Diego Lopes (via MMA Mania, Instagram)

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Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes met again at UFC 325, continuing a competitive featherweight rivalry. Volkanovski once again secured victory in their second meeting, reaffirming his championship status. Both of their encounters were entertaining and marked by a high level of technical execution throughout. However, Volkanovski recently apologized for briefly sitting on Lopes’ face in the last seconds of round 5.

The UFC 325 bout took place in Sydney, Australia, with Volkanovski defending the featherweight title in front of a home crowd. The fight was contested over five rounds, featuring sustained striking exchanges and frequent grappling transitions. Volkanovski controlled the majority of the action through movement and positional awareness. He secured a unanimous decision victory and retained the championship.

During the UFC 325 buildup, both fighters remained respectful throughout fight week. Volkanovski and Lopes praised each other’s abilities and avoided confrontation. At the pre-fight press conference, Volkanovski sang at Lopes’ request, highlighting the mutual tone. That sportsmanship continued after the bout when the Australian champion apologized for a grappling exchange in round five.

 I was sort of sitting on his face, which was pretty funny. And again, I was there. I was like, ‘I’m going to end up on top here. I’m winning.’ He’s holding on to me here. There’s not much he can do. I didn’t realize my my a** was actually on his face. I thought that I was sitting on his chest. That’s why I’m trying to swing back these punches thinking his head’s there and I’m like, ‘Why aren’t I hitting his head?’ So I apologize for that. Lopes, I didn’t know I was sitting on your face.

Alexander Volkanovski via YouTube

The UFC 325 contest served as a rematch of their first meeting at UFC 314 in April 2025. That initial bout saw both fighters pour their heart into a highly technical and competitive striking battle. It was widely regarded for its skill level and sustained exchanges across multiple rounds. However, the outcome mirrored the rematch, as Volkanovski claimed the undisputed title that night at the Kaseya Center.

The victory further cemented Volkanovski’s undisputed status atop the featherweight division. UFC 325 marked his first successful title defense as a two-time champion. The win also represented a key moment in his comeback after suffering the brutal knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. It undoubtedly underscored his ability to recover and reassert himself against elite opposition.

Having now defeated Lopes twice, Alexander Volkanovski continues to assert control over the division at 37 years old. Despite his mileage at the top level, there have been no indications of slowdown or retirement plans. Instead, his focus has shifted toward competition against undefeated contenders. He has identified Lerone Murphy or Movsar Evloev as preferred next opponents rather than stepping away.

Alexander Volkanovski weighs in on Diego Lopes’ championship potential after UFC 325

Diego Lopes’ path to the title was shaped by rapid momentum and success against ranked opposition prior to facing Volkanovski. Reaching two title fights within a short span reflected his rise and marketabilty in the division rather than a lack of ability. Even after losing to ‘Volk’ in their first meeting at UFC 314, Lopes quickly rebounded with a knockout win over formerly undefeated Jean Silva in Spetember 2025.

Alexander Volkanovski vs Diego Lopes at UFC 325
Alexander Volkanovski vs Diego Lopes at UFC 325 (via Yahoo Sports)

In the buildup to UFC 325, Diego Lopes maintained a respectful approach toward Alexander Volkanovski. He acknowledged the Australian champion’s accomplishments and emphasized there was no personal tension. Lopes never engaged in trash talk at any point before the rematch. That tone set the stage for Volkanovski’s later comments on Lopes’ championship potential.

He’s still got a pretty well rounded game when it comes to knowing all aspects of the sport. He will further need to put it all together and he cannot rely on that chin alone. It’s just unfortunate that he had to fight me for the two title fights. I don’t mean that in a bad way, I know how to take advantage of his skills and that’s not something that other guys can do.

Alexander Volkanovski via MMA Junkie

At 145 pounds, Lopes remains positioned among the division’s elite moving forward. His competitive output against the reigning champion has reinforced his long-term relevance in the title picture. With Volkanovski maintaining control of the belt, other contenders continue to emerge, but Lopes’ skill set keeps him firmly in contention. The 145-pound landscape remains active as future matchups take shape.

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