A born showman, Diego Lopes began his journey in the world's largest MMA organization in 2023 and quickly became a sensation. Now, the Brazilian, who has twice fought for the featherweight belt (up to 65,8 kg), will once again be seen on a grand stage, as he enters the UFC White House , an event that takes place this Sunday (14), in Washington (USA), against Steve Garcia . But those who think that the athlete is nervous about fighting on the lawn of the official residence of Donald Trump, President of the United States, are mistaken.
On the contrary, at the UFC Casa Branca media day , Diego openly expressed his excitement at being scheduled to fight in yet another iconic event for the company. It's worth highlighting that the Brazilian not only competed in the historic UFC 300 and UFC na Esfera in 2024, but also put on a show in the octagon by quickly knocking out Sodiq Yusuff and dominating Brian Ortega.
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With such a resume, 'Franja', as one might expect, celebrates the milestone, which reflects the company's confidence in his work. Aware that his work ethic and aggressive style have brought him this far, Lopes promised to leave his mark again, now at the White House.
“I think that, in organizing the event, they looked for people who could really attract a large audience. I think that's not just because it's at the White House, but also because of the appeal of the fighters. If you look at all the fighters in the event, you'll see that they are fighters with a lot of experience in the UFC, with many achievements. This demonstrates the magnitude of the event and the time they invested in bringing together the right people,” said the UFC top fighter.
“I think this is another historic event in my career. I think it says a lot about the great work I’ve done in such a short time. I’m very grateful for all the opportunities the UFC has given me and I’ve taken advantage of every single one of them. Sometimes, many fighters have the opportunity to fight in big events and end up not being able to put on a good show.”
“I think that, from the first day I entered the UFC, I managed to show what I'm capable of. Always, winning or losing, I go in to fight, and I believe that's what gave me the opportunity to fight in these historic events. And that makes me very happy with myself, very happy with the work I've done,” he concluded.
UFC White House
UFC White House , also known as UFC Freedom 250 , will take place on June 14th at the official residence of the US president in Washington, D.C. Unlike usual, the event will be held on a Sunday, Donald Trump's birthday.
In the main event of UFC Casa Branca , Ilia Topuria defends her lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) against Justin Gaethje , the interim champion.
Alex Poatan in the spotlight
Alex Poatan will be a featured athlete at UFC Casa Branca . Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Brazil will be heavily represented at UFC Casa Branca . In the co-main event, Alex Poatan attempts an unprecedented feat. The former middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) and light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) champion seeks the interim heavyweight (up to 120 kg) title against Ciryl Gane.
Besides Poatan, Mauricio Ruffy and Diego Lopes are the other Brazilian athletes on the card. The pair will face Michael Chandler and Steve Garcia , respectively.
UFC White House fight schedule
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje – Title fight
Heavyweight (up to 120 kg): Alex Poatan vs. Ciryl Gane – Interim title fight
Bantamweight (up to 61,2 kg): Sean O'Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi
Heavyweight (up to 120 kg): Josh Hokit vs. Derrick Lewis
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler
Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): Bo Nickal x Kyle Daukaus
Featherweight (up to 65,7 kg): Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia
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