Diego Lopes Hints at Dana White for Receiving Second Title Shot Ahead of Undefeated Contenders

Diego Lopes shuts down criticism regarding his title fight rematch against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 325 in January.

Diego Lopes Hints at Dana White for Receiving Second Title Shot Ahead of Undefeated Contenders

Diego Lopes talks about his UFC 325 bout (via MMA Fighting)

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There has been considerable stir in the featherweight division after the recent announcement of a rematch between Diego Lopes and Alexander Volkanovski. The fight is slated to headline UFC 325 on January 31, 2026, despite their previous encounter only months ago. The decision to grant Lopes another shot at the title has raised eyebrows within the MMA community.

Some of the division’s top contenders, including Lerone Murphy and Aljamain Sterling, publicly criticized the matchmaking. They argued the rematch disregards recent competition and performance, suggesting the promotion gave preference to popularity over merit. Their objections underscore the tension between performance-based ranking and promotional decisions in combat sports.

The scheduling controversy is magnified by the fact that Volkanovski defeated Lopes less than a year ago at UFC 314, making the rapid rebooking unusual. Meanwhile, other contenders such as Movsar Evloev and Murphy have remained undefeated. The Brazilian contender, however, lashed back at critics with a sly hint at UFC CEO Dana White‘s involvement in awarding him the title shot.

My face when I saw them crying. Sitting around, he wont give you a title shot. Get to work and stop whining on social media.

Diego Lopes via X

Lopes’ prior fight against Volkanovski earned him “Fight of the Night” honors, a recognition of the bout’s intensity and competitiveness. Then, at Noche UFC, he delivered a second-round spinning back elbow knockout over Jean Silva, a finish dramatic enough to earn both “Fight of the Night” and “Performance of the Night” bonuses. That finish served as the justification for the immediate title opportunity.

Lopes has become a fan favorite for his calm demeanor under pressure and humility throughout his rise. He is frequently noted for engaging respectfully with opponents and audiences, even in intense environments. He rose to fame after his wins over the likes of Dan Ige, Brian Ortega, and Sodiq Yusuff.

With the rematch confirmed, attention now turns to how UFC 325 could reshape the featherweight championship picture. The event is expected to influence how future contenders are selected and how merit is weighted against marketability.

Some fans think that the UFC wants good ratings for the upcoming fight cards, and popular names makes the most sense. For Diego Lopes, the result may determine whether he solidifies himself as a long-term championship presence or if he returns to the contender pool.

Diego Lopes starts a non-profit jiu-jitsu academy in Mexico

Although born in Brazil, Diego Lopes moved to Mexico at 19 and has built nearly his entire career there. He has repeatedly emphasized his connection to the country through training, lifestyle, and long-term residency. His presence in gyms across Puebla and Guadalajara strengthened his ties. This dual identity has become a central part of his public persona.

Diego Lopes
Diego Lopes (via Bloody Elbow)

Lopes recently opened a non-profit jiu-jitsu academy, Brazilian Warriors, in Puebla, aimed at supporting underprivileged children. The facility provides free training opportunities and donated gear, including kimonos, gloves, and clothing. Sponsors help provide equipment for young athletes. The project reflects his effort to offer resources he lacked early in his own journey.

His embrace of Mexico has also drawn criticism, particularly from Yair Rodriguez, who questioned his representation of Mexican heritage. After all, Lopes was born in Brazil before moving to Mexico to pursue his career. Their dispute escalated during the UFC 314 press conference, prompting security to intervene after a heated exchange.

At one point, it was rumored that Rodriguez may face Lopes next, possibly for the Noche UFC event. However, ‘El Pantera’ has not fought since then, and Jean Silva fought the former title challenger this year. Despite the clash, Diego Lopes continues contributing to the Mexican community through his academy.

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