Brazilian or Mexican? Understand the story of Diego Lopes, who represents both countries at UFC 306

Brazilian or Mexican? Diego lopes enters the UFC with the flags of both countries. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

PUBLICITY:

Brazilian or Mexican? That's the question that MMA fans are asking about Diego lopes, one of the main names in the featherweight category (up to 65,7 kg). Highlight of the UFC 306 next Saturday (14), the fighter faces Brian ortega in celebration of Mexico's Independence Day on the 'Sphere'. But what colors does it truly represent? The answer, however, is not as simple as it seems.

The first thing to consider is that, yes, Diego lopes is Brazilian. He was born in Manaus, Amazonas, and grew up in the country. At a young age, at five, he began his jiu-jitsu journey and was so important in the sport that he received an invitation, 12 years later, to be a jiu-jitsu coach in Mexico.

See too

Brian Ortega declares utmost respect for Diego Lopes after adversity faced at UFC 303

UFC title fights and Brazilians in the spotlight; see five fights to keep an eye on in September

Diego Lopes explains unusual situation he will experience at UFC 306 and expresses concern about the episode

Upon accepting, the fighter began his career and developed great names, as well as making his skill recognized as one of the best in the country, especially in Puebla, Mexico. He was champion of the LUX Fight League, XFL, JFL, all of them locally.

With the transition from jiu-jitsu to MMA, Diego never stopped taking the green and yellow colors to the octagon, but he cited Mexico as a country that 'means a lot' to him, as he competed in the entire Mexican circuit before joining the organization, as well as training at 'Brazilian Warriors' and 'Wolf Gym', both in the country located between the United States and Central America.

Diego lopes is one of the highlights of the UFC featherweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/diegolopesmma

Does Diego Lopes represent Brazil or Mexico?

The decision to represent one country or another goes far beyond the colors of the flag. To Diego lopes, the choice is a reflection of a trajectory marked by challenges and achievements. By leaving his homeland, Amazonas, and embracing Mexico as his second home, the fighter not only found a new home, but also built a legion of fans who follow him in every fight. After all, the passion for MMA transcends borders, and Diego lopes is living proof of that.

“I think I represent both countries because after my first fight, I gained a lot of followers, I got love from Brazil. I mean, if you think about it, my career took off in Mexico. So basically, since I moved there in 2015, so basically, it’s been about 10 years. And you know, I live in Mexico. I train in Mexico. My team is Mexican. I train only with Mexicans. That’s where I live, and that’s my home. That’s who I represent. But I feel like I have love for both countries,” Diego said in an interview after his victory over Sodiq Yussuf, on UFC 300, in April.

In other words, Diego lopes has dual nationality. He was born in Amazonas, but moved to Mexico when he was still young, where he was welcomed, began his career and made a name for himself on the local circuit. He represents both countries and often switches flags when he enters the octagon.

“September 4th, at Esfera, in Las Vegas. From Manaus, Brazil, representing Puebla, Mexico,” wrote the fighter in a recent post on Instagram.