Diego Lopes , it seems, is packing his bags for the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg), and the reason is clear. Riding high after a big win at UFC Casa Branca on June 14th, the Brazilian has suffered two recent losses to champion Alexander Volkanovski , a factor he considers crucial in a possible move down from the featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg).
In an interview with MMA Fighting, the fighter assessed that, as long as Volkanovski remains champion, his chances of fighting for the belt again are limited. Despite acknowledging that a potential stumble by the Australian could reopen his path in the division, Diego highlighted his admiration for his rival and stated that he prefers to see him end his career at the top.
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“Until Volkanovski retires, it will be difficult for me to have another opportunity to fight for the title. I have to hope he loses, but I would prefer that he retires as champion, because he was a great champion of the division, so for him to retire as champion would be very good. And it would leave the space open for the guys who are coming up, right? I also include myself among those guys who are coming up,” said Diego Lopes.
The Brazilian reinforced his desire to move up to lightweight in search of big fights. According to Diego Lopes , there are possible duels within the top 5 or top 6 that better suit his fighting style, which increases his interest in changing weight classes.
“But I’m really in a somewhat difficult position. I have this desire to move up to 70kg to have an interesting fight. I think that within the top 5, top 6, there are good fights for me there. Good fights that suit my style very well. So I really don’t know what’s going to happen in my division,” concluded 'O Franja'.
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Read More about: Alexander Volkanovsky, Diego lopes, UFC
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