Volkanovski wins vacant title in slugfest with Lopes
Briefly

In a thrilling main event at UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski showcased his resilience and skill by reclaiming the featherweight title with a unanimous decision over Diego Lopes. Despite being questioned after two knockout losses, Volkanovski's performance reaffirmed his status as a top fighter in the division. The victory is particularly notable as he becomes the first fighter over 35 to win a title fight in a weight class below 170 pounds, demonstrating that he remains a formidable force in MMA. His strategic movements and persistent jabs were instrumental in turning the tide of the fight against Lopes after a challenging moment in the second round.
With the win, Volkanovski became the first fighter over age 35 to win a world title fight in a weight class under 170 pounds. And he did it with a performance that signaled a return to form for the fighter who dominated the 145-pound division from 2016 to 2023.
Instead of folding, Volkanovski steadied himself and utilized movement and an accurate jab to turn back a surging challenger in Lopes.
Old Man Volk still has it. Volkanovski delivered a vintage performance to reclaim the featherweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Diego Lopes.
The opportunity arose for Volkanovski to reclaim the featherweight title when Topuria decided to vacate and move up to lightweight.
Read at ESPN.com
[
|
]