Volkanovski Faces Lopes Again in Sydney

Alexander Volkanovski is scheduled to face Diego Lopes in Sydney on Sunday, marking his highly anticipated return to home soil for the first time in eight years. The last time Volkanovski fought in Sydney was at UFC Fight Night 121 in November 2017. That event was plagued by numerous withdrawals and issues, including a charge of common assault against Fabricio Werdum.

Volkanovski, now 37 years old, acknowledges the pressure and the perception that he might be on 'borrowed time' in the Octagon. However, he expresses a desire for this heightened pressure, stating he still feels superior to his opponents. He intends to approach the fight with a more aggressive, 'bulldozing' strategy.

Reflecting on his previous bout against Lopes in Miami, Volkanovski feels he can replicate and even improve upon that performance. He believes Lopes will not significantly alter his fighting style, which Volkanovski sees as advantageous to his own plans for a dominant victory. He plans to overwhelm Lopes, leaving no room for error.

The fighter also looks ahead to potential future bouts in 2026, including a possible appearance at the Whitehouse card. Despite acknowledging his legacy is already secure as a two-time champion with five featherweight title defenses, Volkanovski believes winning the belt in Sydney would be a truly special achievement.