Breaking Down UFC 314 Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski Vs. Diego Lopes
- Makina
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
UFC 314 takes place this Saturday night in Miami, featuring a lineup of big names, top contenders, and exciting newcomers. The main event is a showdown between former champ Alexander Volkanovski and top contender Diego Lopes for the vacant UFC featherweight title.
Lopes has the physical advantage, being younger, taller, and more active recently. However, Volkanovski's experience at 145lbs makes him a formidable opponent.
The key questions revolve around Volkanovski's age and whether he's past his prime or just faced top fighters. These will be answered when he meets the aggressive Lopes in the octagon.
Alexander Volkanovski
Volkanovski must regain his confidence after two defeats, as his performance at 36 will be crucial. He should rely on his fighting skills, diversify attacks, win exchanges, and aim to extend the fight into later rounds. As UFC 314 nears, fans are anxious. Volkanovski, a fan favorite and one of the greatest featherweight champions, faces questions about his form after 14 months out following consecutive KO losses to top fighters. Age is significant in MMA, and he needs to show the athleticism and durability he had before. Confidence is key against Lopes, who is in his prime. Volkanovski must remain composed and stick to his game plan despite any early setbacks. His championship experience, having faced top contenders since 2018, is his greatest advantage. Extending the fight into later rounds could be crucial for his victory.
Diego Lopes
Diego Lopes must remain true to himself, maintaining confidence and aggression as he approaches his title shot. The key advantage for him lies in grappling exchanges. Lopes, one of the most thrilling UFC fighters, nearly defeated top contender Movsar Evloev on short notice and has since shown significant improvement, especially after his win over Brian Ortega. To win, Lopes needs to control the fight and dictate the pace, though sustaining his usual intensity over 25 minutes might require adjustments. His best chance against Volkanovski is through grappling, where he can capitalize on ground opportunities. Lopes's dynamic grappling style, including risky maneuvers like scrambling for the back or attempting a guillotine, could disrupt Volkanovski's defense. For Lopes, keeping the fight wild and exciting is crucial to maximizing his chances of victory.
Betting Prediction:
Former world champion Alexander Volkanovski is favored at -125, while Diego Lopes stands at +105, offering good value against the 36-year-old Volkanovski, who is coming off two losses. Age affects MMA fighters, and Volkanovski may not perform at his peak. Betting on Lopes to win at +105 is advisable.
Lopes is a powerful fighter with aggressive submission skills and strong Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, improving with each fight. Hedging bets by choosing Volkanovski to win by decision or Lopes by submission at +550 could be wise. The outcome is uncertain with fighters of this caliber.
Lopes is expected to dominate the first three rounds, exploiting Volkanovski's defensive weaknesses near the fence. With opportunities to strike and potentially secure a choke, Lopes has the momentum and confidence to succeed against an older Volkanovski.
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