UFC 314’s main event promises fireworks as two elite featherweights battle for gold. Whether Volkanovski regains his title or Lopes shocks the world, this fight will have a significant impact on the division’s future
Youssef Zalal’s belief that people are sleeping on Topuria’s wrestling is a point worth considering. While Makhachev has been nearly untouchable in his career, Topuria’s combination of elite striking and grappling makes him a real threat.
If this fight materializes, fans could be in for a high-level chess match between two of the most dangerous men in the UFC.
Whether Topuria can pull off the upset or Makhachev continues his dominance remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—this is a matchup that could redefine legacies and provide one of the most thrilling fights in MMA history.
However, Lopes’ explosiveness, grappling, and finishing ability make him a dangerous opponent, especially in the early rounds.
If Lopes can secure an early finish or find a submission in the first three rounds, he will walk away as the new champion. However, if Volkanovski survives the initial storm and drags the fight into the championship rounds, his superior conditioning and experience could secure him a decision victory.
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Table of Contents
Youssef Zalal: UFC 314 Featherweight Title Showdown
A High-Stakes Featherweight Clash
The UFC 314 main event is set to be an electrifying showdown as former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski takes on the surging Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight championship.1
The highly anticipated bout is scheduled to take place at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, on April 12.
With former champion Ilia Topuria vacating the belt to move up to lightweight, both fighters now have the opportunity to claim UFC gold and stake their claim as the king of the 145-pound division.
Ilia Topuria’s decision to vacate the featherweight championship left a power vacuum at 145 pounds.
The undefeated Georgian-Spanish fighter, who shocked the world by dethroning Volkanovski, has opted to chase greater challenges in the lightweight division.
With his departure, the UFC wasted no time in booking a bout between Volkanovski and Lopes, two of the most dangerous featherweights on the roster.
New improved Prochazka so much fun to watch #UFC311
— Youssef Zalal (@themorocandevil) January 19, 2025
Volkanovski’s Redemption Arc
Alexander Volkanovski is widely regarded as one of the greatest featherweights of all time. However, back-to-back losses to Topuria and Islam Makhachev left his aura of invincibility slightly diminished.
The Australian powerhouse, known for his relentless pace, elite striking, and ironclad resilience, will look to reclaim his former throne and prove that he remains the best featherweight in the world.
Diego Lopes, on the other hand, has quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous contenders in the division.
With an exciting fighting style, a lethal submission game, and a knack for finishing fights, Lopes presents a legitimate threat to anyone in the featherweight division.
A victory over Volkanovski would cement his status as an elite competitor and usher in a new era for the weight class.
Youssef Zalal: Breaking Down the Fight
Alexander Volkanovski’s Keys to Victory
Volkanovski’s game is built around incredible cardio, elite striking, and high fight IQ.2
To regain the title, he will need to focus on the following aspects:
- Volume and Pressure: Volkanovski excels in overwhelming opponents with constant movement and volume striking. He must maintain a high work rate to keep Lopes on the back foot.
- Wrestling and Takedown Defense: Although Lopes is an excellent grappler, Volkanovski’s wrestling could be the key to neutralizing his opponent’s strengths. Keeping the fight standing and avoiding scrambles will be crucial.
- Experience and Composure: Having been in multiple title fights, Volkanovski has an edge in championship-round experience. If the fight reaches the later rounds, his conditioning and mental toughness could make the difference.
Diego Lopes’ Path to Victory
Lopes, the hungry contender, must capitalize on his dynamic skillset to dethrone Volkanovski. His best strategies include:
- Explosive Early Offense: Lopes has the power and submission skills to end the fight early. He must take advantage of the first two rounds when Volkanovski is still adjusting to his style.
- Utilizing the Ground Game: Lopes is an exceptional grappler, and his best path to victory lies in forcing grappling exchanges and looking for submissions.
- Capitalizing on Openings: Volkanovski has been knocked down before. Lopes must stay patient and wait for the right moment to land a fight-changing strike or secure a submission.
Youssef Zalal’s Prediction: Lopes Has the Edge
During a recent interview with Sportskeeda MMA’s James Lynch, UFC fighter Youssef Zalal weighed in on the matchup.3
Zalal acknowledged that both fighters are extremely skilled but ultimately predicted that Lopes has the tools to pull off the upset.
“I know a lot of people…they’re saying, ‘Oh, Diego [Lopes] is not gonna win,’ or the opposite way… Diego is a very dangerous guy, man. Like, you have to deal with him, especially in the first two or three rounds, so I could definitely see Diego winning this fight. But, honestly, you can’t sleep on ‘Volk’ until he shows you otherwise. But yeah, that’s definitely an exciting fight. If I had my money, I’m definitely going with Diego.”
Zalal’s prediction highlights the uncertainty surrounding the bout. While Volkanovski remains a formidable force, Lopes’ explosiveness and grappling prowess make him a live underdog in this title fight.
Fan and Fighter Reactions: A Divided MMA Community
The MMA world is split on the outcome of Volkanovski vs. Lopes.
Many believe that Volkanovski’s experience and championship pedigree will allow him to reclaim the belt, while others see Lopes as the new blood capable of ushering in a fresh era at featherweight.
“Volkanovski has faced tougher competition. He’s been in wars and has championship experience. I think he outlasts Lopes and wins by decision.”
“If Volk can avoid getting caught early, he’ll take over in the later rounds. His fight IQ is just too high.”
Backing Lopes for the Upset
“Lopes is so dangerous in the early rounds. If he gets a hold of Volk’s neck, it’s over.”
“This is Diego’s time. He’s hungry, he’s explosive, and he’s got the skills to make it happen.”
What’s at Stake for Both Fighters?
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Volkanovski and Lopes.
A victory would make him a two-time UFC featherweight champion and solidify his legacy.
A loss could indicate that his prime years are behind him, putting his title aspirations in jeopardy.
A win would crown him as the new UFC featherweight champion and elevate his status to the elite tier of the sport.
A loss would mean going back to the drawing board, but at just 29 years old, he would still have time to rebuild.
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Youssef Zalal: Winner of Potential Clash
The Intriguing Matchup: Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria
The MMA world thrives on dream matchups, and one potential bout that has captured fans’ imagination is a showdown between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria.
Both fighters share a common victory over former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, solidifying their places at the top of the sport.
While Makhachev has already established himself as the reigning lightweight champion, Topuria’s meteoric rise and recent championship win have placed him in discussions as a serious contender.
Makhachev’s Dominance in the Lightweight Division
Islam Makhachev has emerged as one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. A disciple of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev has successfully carried on the Dagestani wrestling legacy with unmatched control on the ground.
His striking has also significantly improved, as showcased in his knockout victory over Volkanovski. Makhachev’s ability to dictate the pace, neutralize opponents with elite grappling, and execute precise striking makes him a nightmare matchup for anyone in the lightweight division.
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Topuria’s Unmatched Confidence and Versatility
Ilia Topuria’s rapid ascent in the featherweight division has been nothing short of spectacular. His destruction of Volkanovski signaled his arrival as a true force in the UFC.
A well-rounded fighter with knockout power, elite grappling, and confidence bordering on arrogance, Topuria brings a different kind of energy to every fight.
What sets him apart is his adaptability—his ability to mix striking and wrestling seamlessly makes him one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC today.
UFC fighter Youssef Zalal recently shared his thoughts on a possible Makhachev vs. Topuria fight. The Moroccan featherweight didn’t hesitate to back Topuria as a formidable challenger, emphasizing the Spaniard’s wrestling skills and well-rounded abilities.
Zalal remarked:
“I’m gonna go with Ilia [Topuria] on this one… Bro, you beat Islam [Makhachev], you’re in that greatest conversation. Like, you’re one of the GOATs conversation, so to go do that and I’m telling you, man, I think they’re sleeping on [Topuria’s] wrestling… Islam, bro, for me, that’s the greatest of all time.”
His words reflect not only his admiration for Makhachev but also a belief that Topuria is being underestimated in certain aspects of his game.
Youssef Zalal: Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight
A fight between Makhachev and Topuria would be an intriguing stylistic clash.
Here are some key factors that could determine the outcome:
Makhachev’s wrestling is the gold standard in MMA. His ability to take down elite strikers and control them on the ground is second to none.
However, Topuria has shown impressive takedown defense and offensive grappling skills of his own. If Topuria can stop Makhachev’s relentless takedowns, the fight could take a completely different trajectory.
While both fighters possess knockout power, their striking styles differ. Makhachev relies on calculated setups, using his wrestling to create striking openings.
Topuria, on the other hand, is more aggressive, willing to stand in the pocket and trade blows. His power and explosiveness could pose a legitimate threat to Makhachev if the fight stays on the feet.
Youssef Zalal
Cardio and Five-Round Stamina
Makhachev has shown that he can maintain a relentless pace for five rounds. His grappling-heavy style often wears opponents down over time.
Topuria, though powerful, has yet to be tested in extended championship fights against a relentless grappler like Makhachev. If the fight goes into the championship rounds, Makhachev’s endurance could give him a distinct advantage.
Both fighters have displayed incredible mental fortitude throughout their careers. Makhachev’s ability to remain composed under pressure and execute game plans flawlessly has been a key factor in his reign.
Topuria, with his unwavering confidence, has shown he can rise to big moments. The fighter who can adjust and remain composed under pressure may emerge victorious.
What a Win Would Mean for Either Fighter
A victory in this potential super fight would have significant ramifications for both men.
If Makhachev were to defeat Topuria, it would further solidify his status as one of the greatest lightweight fighters of all time.
With wins over elite competitors and successful title defenses, he would join the ranks of Khabib Nurmagomedov, BJ Penn, and other lightweight legends.
On the other hand, if Topuria were to overcome Makhachev, it would be a defining moment in MMA history. As Zalal stated, defeating Makhachev would instantly put him in the GOAT conversation.
Not many have successfully handled Dagestani wrestlers, and a victory over Makhachev would catapult Topuria into superstardom.
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