Diego Lopes has said he would accept a trilogy fight with Alexander Volkanovski if he defeats him in their rematch at UFC 325, a stance that may frustrate other contenders at 145 pounds.
The decision to book Lopes for another title shot less than a year after his loss to Volkanovski sparked criticism, particularly with unbeaten contenders such as Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy still waiting. Dana White has dismissed the backlash, telling fans they do not have to watch if they dislike the matchup.
Lopes has defended his position by pointing to his reliability and willingness to accept any fight the UFC offers. He recently said that mindset would not change if the promotion wanted a third fight with Volkanovski. While he also expressed interest in facing Evloev or Murphy, Lopes made clear he would not turn down another bout with the former champion, calling Volkanovski a legend.
Meanwhile, a title eliminator between Evloev and Murphy appears likely. Evloev’s teammate Grant Dawson has suggested the matchup is already in motion, potentially setting up the next challenger. If Lopes wins the belt in Australia, however, the featherweight title picture could become far more complicated.
