UFC 325 was meant to be a chance for Diego Lopes to change the story. Instead, it turned into another long and difficult evening against Alexander Volkanovski.
The two met again in Sydney, Australia, in a five round title fight. Just like their first meeting, Volkanovski stayed sharp and controlled the action. When the final horn sounded, the judges scored the fight 49 46, 49 46, and 50 45 in favor of the champion.
For Lopes, the result felt familiar. The fight looked very close to their first matchup back in April 2025. Volkanovski’s movement and timing once again made it hard for Lopes to find clean shots.
Injuries Come to Light After the Fight
This time, there was another problem waiting after the fight ended. Lopes did not leave the cage in good shape.
His manager, Jason House, shared an update on social media that showed how serious the damage might be.
“Looks like we broke both feet,” House wrote in an Instagram Story. “Some nights you’re at the afterparty, some nights you’re at the ER. But every morning I give thanks for the opportunity to live this life with my best friends.”
Five rounds with the champion clearly took a heavy toll, and the recovery road now looks long for the Brazilian Mexican contender.
Lopes Sends Message to His Team
Not long after, Lopes also spoke out. He did not look for excuses. Instead, he focused on the people who helped him get to this point.
He posted a photo with his coaches and training partners and wrote:
“Together until the end, through thick and thin. We’ve fallen and gotten back up time and time again. So I’m just grateful that you’re with me on this journey.”
Diego Lopes might have broken both his feet in the Alexander Volkanovski rematch #UFC325
📸@Diegolopesmma pic.twitter.com/tyGbpH4umL
— The Combat Sport Poll Guy (@PollGuyUFC) February 1, 2026
He also shared a short message about the fight itself and about his opponent.
“No excuses,” he tweeted on X. “You’re ‘the great’ for a reason, Alexander Volkanovski. Thanks for the fight.”
No excuses, you’re “ the great “ @alexvolkanovski for a reason, thanks for the fight 🤝
— Diego Lopes 🇧🇷🇲🇽 (@Diegolopesmma) February 1, 2026
With this defeat, Lopes is now 0 and 2 against Volkanovski. That puts him in a difficult spot in the division. Many strong fighters have been here before, stuck waiting while the same champion keeps winning.
Until someone finally takes the belt from Volkanovski, Lopes may have to take a different path. That could mean fighting other top contenders or becoming a test for rising names in the division.
First, though, he has to heal. If his manager’s words are accurate, broken feet will keep him out of action for a while. Only after that recovery will it be clear what the next chapter looks like for him.
One thing is certain. Lopes is not walking away quietly. Even after another loss and serious injuries, his message stayed the same. No excuses, respect for the champion, and thanks to the people who stand with him.
