Diego Lopes has suggested he would be open to a trilogy fight with Alexander Volkanovski if he wins their upcoming rematch at UFC 325, a stance unlikely to sit well with several top contenders at 145lb.
The decision to book Lopes for another title shot less than a year after his defeat to Volkanovski has already drawn criticism from fans, particularly with unbeaten challengers such as Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy still waiting for their chance. Lopes went 1-1 in 2025, while his rivals have built long winning streaks, adding to the controversy.
Lopes has defended his position by stressing his reliability and willingness to accept any fight the UFC offers. Speaking recently, he said he would not turn down a trilogy bout if the promotion wanted Volkanovski to challenge again, citing the former champion’s status as a legend of the sport. At the same time, Lopes acknowledged interest in facing Evloev or Murphy if those opportunities arise.
Meanwhile, momentum appears to be building toward a clash between Evloev and Murphy. Grant Dawson, a teammate of Evloev, has indicated preparations are under way for that matchup, potentially as a title eliminator when the UFC returns to London in March.
If Lopes leaves Australia with the featherweight belt, the division could face an awkward logjam, with a possible Volkanovski trilogy complicating the path for other contenders who believe they have already done enough to earn a title shot.
