Alexander Volkanovski vs Diego Lopes Prediction & Betting Tips - UFC 314

Prediction published on 08/04/2025, 20:38  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 08/04/2025 at 20:42 in UFC Predictions

The Ultimate Fighting Championship returns to Miami this weekend for UFC 314, headlined by the main event of Alexander Volkanovski taking on Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title. The Great has a pro record of 26-4-0, while Lopes is 26-6-0. Let’s get into the match prediction. 

Alexander Volkanovski is widely considered one of the greatest featherweight champions the UFC has ever seen, but he is returning to the Octagon for the first time in nearly 14 months. 

Part of the reason for The Great’s decision to step back was his performances in his last two matches, where he suffered back-to-back defeats to Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev, both by way of KO/TKO.

For Volkanovski, this match is a shot at redemption following three defeats in his last four. It will also afford him the opportunity to prove his critics wrong - those who suggest that his best days are behind him at 36. 

While Volkanovski earned his shot at the title by dominating the division for several years, Diego Lopes has been handed a chance at gold, having rapidly risen in the ranks in recent times.

The Brazilian’s last fight came in September 2024 at UFC 306, where he secured a unanimous decision over Brian Ortega, which was his fifth victory in a row since August 2023. 

Lopes employs an aggressive forward-pressing striking attack, which he will look to leverage. He is also younger by five years, is six inches taller, and has an inch reach advantage over his upcoming opponent.