Summary
Johnson focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
At UFC 325, scheduled for January 31st in Australia, Diego Lopes will have another chance to become the featherweight champion (up to 65,8 kg). The Brazilian will challenge Alexander Volkanovski , the reigning champion of the division, in a rematch. However, if it were up to the legendary Demetrious Johnson , the Australian would have a completely different title challenger.
On his official YouTube channel, Johnson disapproved of Diego's title shot and questioned the UFC's decision. According to the former flyweight king (up to 57 kg), the undefeated Lerone Murphy and Movsar Evloev did more to deserve a title shot than the Brazilian, who lost to Volkanovski in April and has only won one fight since then.
See too
Not satisfied, the veteran lamented the fact that the UFC was prioritizing a fighter's popularity over sporting merit. It's worth noting that 'DJ' wasn't the only one who criticized the company's choice and pointed to favoritism towards Diego. Fans and MMA professionals also expressed dissatisfaction and considered his new title shot unfair. The champion himself seemed surprised by the fight.
“You had the opportunity to fight for the belt and you lost. It was four rounds to one. I think everyone feels comfortable saying that. I thought Volkanovski won that fight dominantly. Then, Diego beat Jean. He was shaken. It was a stand-up exchange, a war, but it was just one fight. He gets the opportunity to fight for the belt again. Why is he so popular? Why does he sell so many tickets? I don't know,” said the MMA legend.
“Are we doing this for popularity or because someone is better? That’s where I like to question the legitimacy of this thing we call ‘sport.’ That’s why I always say it’s not a sport. It’s a matter of choice. ‘I’m going to promote this athlete because he has a market I want to penetrate, one I haven’t yet managed to enter or establish myself in. I’m not worried about that.’ Fine. Just let me know,” he concluded.
Diego Lopes celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/X/diegolopesmma
How did Diego overcome the competition?
To challenge champion Volkanovski and have a rematch at UFC 325, Diego defeated Lerone Murphy and Movsar Evloev , who, despite their undefeated MMA records, rarely fight. The Brazilian left the pair behind largely due to his popularity, frequency in the octagon, his aggressive fighting style, and his impressive recent victory. In September, he knocked out Jean Silva in the second round, ending his compatriot's undefeated streak in the company. Murphy and Evloev, however, are the two fighters he defeated .
Controlled by Volkanovski
Diego Lopes already had an opportunity to become UFC featherweight champion. In April, the Brazilian fought for the vacant title against Alexander Volkanovski . In the octagon, the athlete even startled the Australian at certain moments, but was controlled and lost by unanimous decision. Now, the professional can settle the score with the veteran and has his respect.
Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.
You need to log in to comment.