The main event of UFC 314 features a high-stakes featherweight showdown as former champion Alexander Volkanovski returns to reclaim his throne against Brazil’s surging contender, Diego Lopes. With Volkanovski looking to bounce back from two brutal losses and Lopes riding a dominant win streak, the stakes couldn’t be higher in this battle of experience versus momentum.

Alexander Volkanovski (26-4) is widely considered one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history. The Australian veteran held the UFC Featherweight Championship from 2019 to 2024, with title defenses against elite opponents like Max Holloway (x3), Brian Ortega, and Yair Rodríguez. Known for his relentless pace, striking IQ, and takedown defense, Volkanovski built a legacy on durability and adaptability. However, back-to-back knockout losses to Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria have raised questions about his ability to withstand damage at the highest level, especially at 36 years old.

Diego Lopes (26-6) enters the bout ranked #3 in the featherweight division and brimming with momentum. The Brazilian submission artist and knockout threat has dazzled fans with five straight UFC wins, including finishes over Sodiq Yusuff, Pat Sabatini, and Gavin Tucker. Lopes brings creativity, killer instinct, and fight-ending ability wherever the fight goes, with 10 knockout wins and 12 submissions. This will be his first UFC title bout—and it comes against one of the division's all-time greats.

Last 5 Fights – Alexander Volkanovski:

❌ Loss – Ilia Topuria | KO (punch) | UFC 298 | Feb 17, 2024
❌ Loss – Islam Makhachev | KO (head kick & punches) | UFC 294 | Oct 21, 2023
✅ Win – Yair Rodríguez | TKO (punches) | UFC 290 | Jul 8, 2023
❌ Loss – Islam Makhachev | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 284 | Feb 12, 2023
✅ Win – Max Holloway | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 276 | Jul 2, 2022

Last 5 Fights – Diego Lopes:

✅ Win – Brian Ortega | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 306 | Sep 14, 2024
✅ Win – Dan Ige | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 303 | Jun 29, 2024
✅ Win – Sodiq Yusuff | TKO (punches) | UFC 300 | Apr 13, 2024
✅ Win – Pat Sabatini | KO (punches) | UFC 295 | Nov 11, 2023
✅ Win – Gavin Tucker | Submission (armbar) | UFC on ESPN | Aug 5, 2023

Prediction:

This matchup hinges on whether Volkanovski's championship experience and grit can neutralize Lopes' explosiveness and finishing ability. Volkanovski excels in dragging opponents into deep waters, but his recent KO losses suggest some wear and tear that Lopes could exploit early. Conversely, Lopes hasn’t faced a fighter with Volk’s cardio, game planning, or octagon composure.

If Volkanovski can avoid early damage and impose his pace, he may grind out a decision. But if Lopes finds an opening in the early rounds, he has the tools to shock the world and secure a finish.

Diego Lopes wins via TKO (Round 2)