Diego Lopes, after securing a stunning victory over Sodiq Yusuff at UFC 300, swiftly emerged as a notable figure in the UFC featherweight division. With a remarkable finish of Yusuff in just 89 seconds, Lopes became the first fighter to halt Yusuff in the UFC, a feat that validated his meticulous preparation and dedication to his craft.
Speaking through a translator on The MMA Hour, Lopes expressed confidence in the outcome, stating that the finish was a culmination of their strategic planning and hard work.
Following his triumph, Lopes ascended to the No. 14 spot in the UFC featherweight rankings, an accomplishment he views as merely the starting point for his ambitions. Seizing the moment, Lopes directly engaged UFC CEO Dana White, outlining his roadmap to championship glory, beginning with a rematch. He asserted his desire to face Movsar Evloev again, proposing an encounter during International Fight Week, emphasizing his conviction to eventually claim the title.
Lopes previously clashed with Evloev at UFC 288, making his promotional debut on short notice. Despite the odds stacked against him, Lopes delivered a commendable performance, ultimately succumbing to Evloev via decision in a bout that garnered Fight of the Night honors.
Since then, Lopes has been on a tear in the UFC, securing three consecutive first-round finishes. Meanwhile, Evloev has had limited activity, with just one fight, a win over Arnold Allen, placing him on the verge of a title shot.
With competitors such as Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski appearing to have priority over Evloev for a title shot, Lopes perceives a chance to arrange the rematch and advance his position in the division. He eagerly articulates his desire for another showdown with Evloev, convinced that a triumph would thrust him into the conversation for a title opportunity.
Despite any hesitations from Evloev’s team, Lopes stands resolute, emphasizing his preparedness to engage in a battle and stressing the importance of the rematch in his quest for championship success.
