SYDNEY: Alexander Volkanovski reaffirmed his dominance over the UFC featherweight division with a masterclass performance, outlasting challenger Diego Lopes in a high-octane rematch at UFC 325 in Sydney.
The 37-year-old Australian superstar retained his 145-pound crown with a unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 50-45) after an electrifying five-round war that pushed both athletes to the limits of endurance and skill.
Volkanovski, a former rugby league powerhouse, basked in the adulation of a roaring 20,000-strong crowd at Qudos Bank Arena, marking his first world title defense on home soil with poise and precision.
The reigning champion (28-4) extended his stranglehold over 31-year-old Lopes (27-8), having also defeated him via unanimous decision in their initial bout at UFC 314 in Miami last April a victory Volkanovski hailed as one of the defining moments of his illustrious career.
“This fight was relentless,” Volkanovski admitted. “You’re up against a young, ferocious opponent who’s hungry for victory. I wanted to finish him early, but his resilience was something else. Standing for 25 minutes wasn’t ideal, but we got the job done.”
The champion’s dramatic ring walk to the iconic Australian anthem “Down Under” set the tone, with fans including cricket legend Steve Waugh igniting an electric atmosphere. Despite entering as the clear favorite, Volkanovski stayed vigilant against his taller, aggressive rival.
Lopes came out swinging, unleashing punishing leg kicks and a thunderous right hook in the third round that briefly rattled the champion. Yet Volkanovski’s relentless movement, surgical striking, and tactical brilliance ultimately wore down Lopes, leaving him unable to deliver a knockout.
On the undercard, rising French lightweight Benoit Saint Denis showcased his growing dominance with a second-round technical knockout over New Zealand’s Dan Hooker. “I’m ready for the championship. This is just the beginning,” said Saint Denis after his fourth consecutive victory.
In the heavyweight clash, Brazil’s Tallison Teixeira emerged victorious over Australian powerhouse Tai Tuivasa via unanimous decision, extending Tuivasa’s losing streak to six bouts
