The UFC returns to Sydney, Australia, for a blockbuster event that promises to set the tone for 2026. UFC 325: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2 is not just another fight night; it is a homecoming for one of the greatest champions in featherweight history and a chance for redemption against a surging rival.
For fight fans in Estonia, Australian cards present a unique challenge: the time difference. While the fights happen on Sunday afternoon in Sydney, they will air late Saturday night and early Sunday morning in Europe. This guide breaks down the exact start times for the Early Prelims, Prelims, and Main Card so you don’t miss a single punch.
Below is your complete viewing guide, including the fight card analysis, broadcast partners, and the critical time conversions for Estonian viewers (EET).
UFC 325 Event Details
- Event: UFC 325: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2
- Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026 (Estonia) / Sunday, February 1, 2026 (Local)
- Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, Australia
- Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes (Featherweight Title)
This event marks the promotion’s return to the Qudos Bank Arena, a venue known for its electric atmosphere when local heroes step into the cage. With Alexander Volkanovski fighting on home soil, expect the noise levels to rival the famous UFC 243 event in Melbourne.
Official Start Times for Estonia (EET)
Understanding the time zones is crucial. Sydney is currently in Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), which is 9 hours ahead of Estonia (EET). While the event takes place on Sunday afternoon in Australia, it will be a late-night affair for European fans.
Main Card Start Time
- Estonia Time: 04:00 AM (Sunday, February 1)
- Local Sydney Time: 01:00 PM (Sunday, February 1)
Prelims Start Time
- Estonia Time: 02:00 AM (Sunday, February 1)
- Local Sydney Time: 11:00 AM (Sunday, February 1)
Early Prelims Start Time
- Estonia Time: 23:30 PM (Saturday, January 31)
- Local Sydney Time: 08:30 AM (Sunday, February 1)
If you are planning to watch the entire card, prepare for a marathon session starting just before midnight on Saturday.
How to Watch UFC 325 in Estonia
For viewers in Estonia and the Baltics, the broadcasting landscape has solidified over the last few years. The primary destination for premium combat sports remains the TV3 Group.
1. Go3 Sport (TV3 Sport)
The most reliable way to watch the Main Card and Prelims is via Go3. Following the sublicensing deal that absorbed Viaplay’s sports portfolio in the Baltics, Go3 is the undisputed home of UFC, Premier League, and Formula 1 in the region. You will likely need the “Sport” package to access the live stream.
2. UFC Fight Pass
For the hardcore fans who want to catch every second of the action, UFC Fight Pass is essential. It is the exclusive home for the Early Prelims and provides access to the full fight library. If you want to re-watch Volkanovski’s first bout with Lopes to prepare for the rematch, this is where you will find it.
Main Event Deep Dive: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2
The headline act is a rematch that the division desperately needs. Alexander Volkanovski is looking to defend his throne against the dangerous Brazilian finisher, Diego Lopes.
The Narrative
Their first meeting was a short-notice thriller that shocked the world. Lopes, stepping in as a massive underdog, threatened the champion with deep submission attempts and heavy leather. Volkanovski survived and won on points, but the aura of invincibility was pierced.
Now, with a full training camp, Lopes believes he has the cardio and the game plan to finish the job. For Volkanovski, this is about asserting dominance. Fighting at home in Sydney adds immense pressure; historically, champions fighting in their hometowns have had mixed results due to the overwhelming media obligations.
Technical Keys to Victory
- Volkanovski’s Volume: The champion excels at feinting and disrupting his opponent’s rhythm. He must use his leg kicks to limit Lopes’s explosive forward movement.
- Lopes’s Jiu-Jitsu: Lopes has arguably the most dangerous guard in the division. If Volkanovski takes him down, he must be wary of armbars and triangles—threats that nearly cost him the belt in their first encounter.
- Cardio Management: The pace of a five-round title fight is brutal. We saw in Makhachev vs. Volkanovski 1 that the Australian gets stronger as the fight goes on. Lopes must prove he can maintain his explosive power into the championship rounds (4 and 5).
Co-Main Event: Hooker vs. Saint Denis
The co-main event features New Zealand’s Dan Hooker taking on the “God of War,” Benoit Saint Denis. This is a guaranteed violence-fest.
Hooker has experienced a career renaissance, utilizing his long knees and improved wrestling defense to climb back into contention. Saint Denis, known for his relentless pressure and aggressive grappling, will try to force a phone-booth fight. For fans who enjoy technical brawls, this might be the fight of the night.
Full Fight Card Overview
The card is stacked with Oceanic talent, ensuring the Sydney crowd will be raucous from the very first bell. (Note: Card subject to change).
Main Card (04:00 EET):
- Featherweight Title: Alexander Volkanovski (c) vs. Diego Lopes
- Lightweight: Dan Hooker vs. Benoit Saint Denis
- Lightweight: Rafael Fiziev vs. Mauricio Ruffy
- Heavyweight: Tai Tuivasa vs. Tallison Teixeira
- Lightweight: Quillan Salkilld vs. Jamie Mullarkey
Prelims (02:00 EET):
- Light Heavyweight: Junior Tafa vs. Billy Elekana
- Middleweight: Jacob Malkoun vs. Torrez Finney
Why You Should Watch
Aside from the title implications, this card represents a critical moment for the Oceanic region. With stars like Tai Tuivasa and Junior Tafa needing wins to stay relevant, the stakes are incredibly high. Furthermore, the atmosphere in Australian arenas is unlike anywhere else in the world—expect “Shoeys,” chants, and an energy that translates even through the TV screen.
FAQ: Watching UFC in Estonia
Can I watch UFC 325 for free in Estonia?
Generally, no. UFC numbered events are premium content. You will need a subscription to Go3 Sport or UFC Fight Pass. Beware of illegal streams as they often have poor quality, lag, and security risks.
What time does the main event start?
The main event ring walks for Volkanovski vs. Lopes are expected around 06:30 AM or 07:00 AM EET on Sunday morning, depending on the duration of the previous fights.
Is Viaplay still showing UFC in Estonia?
No. Viaplay has exited the Baltic market. Their sports portfolio, including the UFC, Premier League, and Formula 1, has been sublicensed to Go3. You should use the Go3 platform for all live broadcasts.
Can I watch the event on demand?
Yes, both Go3 and UFC Fight Pass typically offer on-demand replays shortly after the event concludes. This is a great option if you prefer to sleep in on Sunday morning and watch the fights spoiler-free.
Are the Early Prelims broadcast on TV?
Usually, the Early Prelims are exclusive to UFC Fight Pass. TV channels in Europe often pick up the broadcast starting from the regular Prelims (02:00 EET) or just the Main Card (04:00 EET).
