Just one week after UFC 324, the promotion heads Down Under for UFC 325, where featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will defend his title against Diego Lopes at Sydney Olympic Park on January 31, 2026.
For Volkanovski, fighting in his home country adds extra significance to what is already a pivotal moment in his career. The Australian legend is in his second reign as featherweight champion after reclaiming the title from Ilia Topuria in April 2025.
“There’s nothing like fighting at home,” Volkanovski said. “The energy, the support — it pushes you to another level. Diego is dangerous, but I’m fighting for my country.”
Lopes earned this rematch with an impressive run that culminated in a spinning elbow knockout of Jean Silva at Noche UFC in September 2025. Their first encounter saw Volkanovski edge out a decision victory, but Lopes believes the sequel will have a different ending.
“I learned from our first fight,” Lopes stated. “I know what I need to do. Alex is a great champion, but I’m coming to take that belt home to Brazil.”
The event marks a significant moment for Australian MMA, following Jack Della Maddalena’s welterweight title reign earlier in 2025. A Volkanovski victory would cement Australia’s status as a powerhouse in the sport.
UFC 325 will also stream on Paramount+, continuing the new broadcast partnership’s global rollout with one of the most anticipated international events of the year.
