Alexander Volkanovski will face Diego Lopes in a rematch for the featherweight championship at UFC 325. UFC President Dana White confirmed the matchup during an Instagram Live session, with the event scheduled for January 31, 2026, in Sydney, Australia, which is February 1 locally. Reports from BennyPMMA first hinted at the rematch prior to the official confirmation.
First Meeting Recap
The two fighters first clashed at UFC 314 earlier in 2025. Alexander Volkanovski earned a decision victory to claim a vacant featherweight title and begin his second reign as champion. The title was available after Ilia Topuria left the division to compete at lightweight. Topuria subsequently captured the 155 pound championship with a knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317.
Diego Lopes rebounded quickly from his loss, returning at Noche UFC 3. He defeated Jean Silva with a second round knockout, handing Silva his first defeat in the UFC after a thirteen fight winning streak.
BACK IN THE LAND DOWN UNDER 🇦🇺@AlexVolkanovski vs @DiegoLopesMMA 2 is the #UFC325 main event!!
WATCH LIVE January 31 on @ParamountPlus!
[ #FeelNewSydney | #ILoveSydney ] pic.twitter.com/Hy0BU8WHWw
— UFC (@ufc) November 27, 2025
The timing of this rematch has surprised many, as two undefeated fighters are also waiting for a title opportunity. Movsar Evloev, at 19 and 0, has not competed in 2025 due to injury. Lerone Murphy, who is 16 and 0 with one draw, recently finished Aaron Pico in the first round.
At one point, Lerone Murphy was expected to challenge Alexander Volkanovski next. Volkanovski even described the potential matchup as “a no brainer.” The decision to schedule Diego Lopes for a second fight leaves Murphy either waiting or needing another fight to remain active. Murphy expressed his frustration publicly on social media following the announcement.
Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes now prepare for a high stakes rematch that could redefine the featherweight division. Both fighters enter with momentum: Volkanovski as the reigning champion and Lopes seeking redemption. Fans will have a full night of action in Sydney as UFC 325 sets the stage for the rematch.
