Parrumpinha opens up and reveals what happened behind the scenes of Diego Lopes' arrival at the UFC: 'You have to thank me'

Diego lopes in action in UFC 314. Photo: Reproduction/X

Diego lopes is, without a doubt, a big UFC star. The Brazilian, who represents Mexico, fought for the belt with only five wins in the organization and, in Night UFC, held last Saturday (13), took away the invincibility of Jean Silva with a knockout. However, despite his prominent position, 'Franja' had a difficult start and, according to Marcos Parrumpinha, the opportunity was thanks to him.

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Participating in the 'MMA Hoje' Podcast, Parrumpinha recalled that his athlete Movsar Evloev was without an opponent in the UFC 288 and chose Diego lopes to face his pupil. Despite believing it would be an easy fight, the trainer reveals that the plan almost went down the drain.

"Diego has to thank me, brother. Because I was the one who picked him to fight Movsar. There were two names, and I picked his. It almost backfired, it almost caused problems... 'Getting this guy who has no wrestling skills at all will be an easier fight for Movsar,' and the guy brought it all, brother. Impressive," said Parrumpinha.

Despite their opening defeat to Movsar Evloev, Diego lopes string together five consecutive victories until he had the chance to face Alexander Volkanovsky for the division title. The Brazilian came close to defeating the champion and has now returned to winning ways in style, with a knockout about Jean Silva.