Ilia Topuria’s decision to relinquish his featherweight title has rewritten the division’s narrative, placing Diego Lopes and Alexander Volkanovski at its core. With ‘El Matador’ stepping aside, a high-stakes showdown between Lopes and Volkanovski now looms, set to shape the future of the featherweight throne. While the fighters brought intensity to their faceoff at the UFC 314 presser, fans fear an unfavorable reality may be waiting for ‘The Great.’

Alexander Volkanovski was riding the wave of glory in the featherweight division until he crossed paths against Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. His decision to face Islam Makhachev on short notice at UFC 294 may have derailed his championship status. However, the former champ is just one step away from reclaiming his past glory. Yet, the fans believe that ‘The Great’ is in for a brutal reality check.

Volkanovski and Lopes kept things light during their face-off on Friday’s press conference, ‘The Great’ did make fun of Lopes’s hairstyle but ot was all good as they were in laughter. Their initial faceoff was more friendly than fierce, however, in an attempt to bring in some heat to the battle, Volkanovski dramatically tore off his shirt, while Lopes stayed cool in his cowboy gear. Both the fighters exchanged handshakes before parting ways.

Alexander Volkanovski is on a two-fight losing streak, while Diego Lopes is on a five-fight winning streak. With three of his last five victories coming by finish, Lopes displays a different kind of hunger that Volkanovski currently lacks. Interestingly, even prominent UFC analyst Luke Thoma believes that ‘The Great’ might be taking in more than he could bite, “I think he’s [Volkanovski] damaged goods at this point,” said Thomas in a conversation with the media.

He further added, “I don’t trust his chin. I think Lopes, who’s not mechanically, you know, super textbook… But he finds offense everywhere and can swarm and smother. He has very good finishing instincts. I don’t think Lopes is a better fighter in a general sense. But I think it’s a bad time for Volkanovski.” Thomas is not the only one within the MMA realm who believes that ‘The Great’ might be in for a reality check.

MMA community divided over Diego Lopes and Alexander Volkanovski’s face-off at UFC 314 presser

Both Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria knocked out Alexander Volkanovski in their last two bouts. The effects of the Dagestani’s head kick seem to be lingering, as ‘The Great’ has not been in his usual form recently. Reflecting on this, a fan wrote: “Don’t be surprised if lopes knocks volk out”

Diego Lopes has been dropping opponents since he stepped into the Octagon. His clash against Brian Ortega was a loud statement to the UFC, demanding a title shot—and Dana White seems open to the idea. With an 84% finish rate, the Brazilian fighter will be looking to add another stoppage victory, and a fan shares the same expectation,“Diego lopes drops volk then submits him.” 

However, is it ok to underestimate Alexander Volkanovski? Maybe not as ‘The Great’ has nothing left to conquer in his division. With amazing victories over Max Holloway, Yair Rodriquez, Jose Aldo, and Brian Ortega, Volkanovski has already cemented his legacy but can he replicate it once again? A fan believes it so, “I’m sorry though why are people doubting Volk? History speaks for itself. No discredit to Lopez though Volk is a killer.” Furthermore, another fan has come forward to wish for Volk’s defeat, “Alex bouta get starched at the cleaners”

A fan believes that Volkanovski will win by decision, “Volks will win by boring decision 50-45.” last but not the least, a fan believes that Lopes will sleep Alexander Volkaanovski, “Lopes about to trun my GOAT into a full time cook”

With UFC 314 closing in what are your thoughts on the fight? Will Alexander Volkanvoski reclaim his belt or will it be the rise of another featherweight champion? State your thoughts in the comments below.