The Featherweight division is bracing for impact as the UFC returns to Australian shores for a blockbuster event that promises to set the tone for 2026. UFC 325: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2 lands at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on Sunday, February 1 (local time), bringing with it a championship rematch that has the entire MMA world buzzing.
At the top of the bill, arguably the greatest featherweight of all time, Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski, defends his crown on home soil against the electrifying Brazilian challenger, Diego Lopes. This isn’t just a fight; it’s a sequel to their April 2025 classic at UFC 314, where Volkanovski reclaimed the vacant throne in a masterclass of technical striking and cardio.
For fans in Estonia and across Europe, this event offers a unique viewing schedule and a fight card stacked with high-stakes matchups, including a pivotal lightweight clash between Dan Hooker and Benoit Saint Denis. Whether you are a hardcore analyst or a casual observer, this deep dive will prepare you for everything you need to know about UFC 325.
The Main Event: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2
The Narrative: Kings Stay Kings?
It is rare to see a champion recapture their belt after losing it, but Alexander Volkanovski is no ordinary fighter. After a brief stumble in 2024, “The Great” reminded the world of his quality by dismantling Diego Lopes over five rounds to win the vacant title at UFC 314. The scorecards read 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46, a clear victory but one competitive enough to warrant a second chapter.
For Diego Lopes, this rematch represents the ultimate opportunity for redemption. The Brazilian has been a revelation since his short-notice debut against Movsar Evloev, transforming from an unknown prospect into a legitimate title threat with devastating submissions and knockout power. He knows he can hang with the champ—now he needs to prove he can beat him.
Technical Breakdown: Speed vs. Chaos
The first fight was a study in controlled chaos versus disciplined pressure. Volkanovski used his signature feints and low kicks to disrupt Lopes’ rhythm, landing 158 significant strikes compared to Lopes’ 63. However, the stats don’t tell the full story. Lopes had his moments, particularly in the fourth round where he stunned the Aussie with a thudding uppercut, proving that his power carries late into the fight.
- Volkanovski’s Keys to Victory:
- Lateral Movement: In the first fight, Volkanovski neutralized Lopes’ aggressive blitzes by constantly circling away from the Brazilian’s power side. He must avoid getting backed against the fence where Lopes is most dangerous.
- The Jab: Volkanovski’s jab was the piston that drove his victory in Miami. By stinging Lopes every time he tried to reset, he prevented the challenger from planting his feet for big counters.
- Wrestling Defense: Lopes is a BJJ wizard. Volkanovski cannot afford to be lazy in the clinch. His ability to pop back up instantly—a trait that frustrated Islam Makhachev in their first encounter—will be critical here.
- Lopes’ Path to the Belt:
- Chaos Generation: Lopes thrives in the scramble. He needs to turn this from a technical kickboxing match into a dirty brawl. Forcing 50/50 grappling exchanges could open up opportunities for his lightning-fast submission attacks.
- Checking the Leg Kick: Volkanovski chewed up Lopes’ lead leg in the first meeting. If Lopes hasn’t fixed this defensive hole, his mobility will be compromised by the third round, making him a stationary target for the champion.
- Body Work: Headhunting won’t be enough. Lopes needs to invest in body shots to sap Volkanovski’s legendary gas tank, something few fighters have successfully done.
Co-Main Event: Dan Hooker vs. Benoit Saint Denis
If the main event is a chess match, the co-main event is a demolition derby. New Zealand’s Dan “The Hangman” Hooker faces France’s “God of War,” Benoit Saint Denis, in a lightweight battle that has “Fight of the Night” written all over it.
Dan Hooker finds himself in a gatekeeper-to-contender limbo. After a resurgence that saw him beat Jalin Turner and Mateusz Gamrot, he hit a wall against Arman Tsarukyan in late 2025. Hooker is tough as nails, with knees that can end a fight in an instant, but he has taken significant damage over his career. Fighting in Sydney, practically a home game, will give him a massive adrenaline boost.
Benoit Saint Denis, on the other hand, is pure aggression. A former Special Forces operator, he fights with a reckless abandon that is terrifying to behold. He is coming off strong wins against Mauricio Ruffy and Beneil Dariush. His pressure is suffocating, but his defense is porous—a dangerous combination against a sniper like Hooker.
Prediction: This fight will not go the distance. Saint Denis will force the pace, but Hooker’s counter-striking, particularly his intercepting knee, could catch the Frenchman coming in. Expect violence from the opening bell.
Undercard Gems to Watch
The depth of this card is impressive, featuring several matchups that could steal the show:
- Tai Tuivasa vs. Tallison Teixeira: A heavyweight clash that likely ends in a knockout. Local hero Tai Tuivasa is in desperate need of a win after a skid of losses to heavy hitters like Pavlovich and Volkov. The “Shoey” king will have the crowd behind him, but he must be careful against the towering Teixeira.
- Rafael Fiziev vs. Mauricio Ruffy: This is a striker’s delight. Fiziev is one of the most technical Muay Thai practitioners in the UFC, while Ruffy has shown flashes of brilliance. This bout will likely take place entirely on the feet, showcasing elite level striking dynamics.
- Preliminary Card Talent: Keep an eye on the Road to UFC finals happening on the early prelims. These fights feature hungry prospects from Asia fighting for a life-changing UFC contract. The desperation often leads to spectacular finishes.
What This Means for the Featherweight Division
The stakes at 145 pounds have never been higher. With Ilia Topuria moving up to chase lightweight gold, the division needed stability, and Volkanovski provided it. However, a win for Lopes would signal a complete changing of the guard, ushering in a new era of unpredictable grappling-heavy champions.
If Volkanovski defends successfully, the conversation shifts to his legacy. Is he the undisputed GOAT of the division? A second reign, especially with defenses against the new generation like Lopes, would make that argument nearly bulletproof.
How to Watch UFC 325 in Estonia & Europe
Because the event takes place in Australia, the timing is optimized for the North American Pay-Per-View market, which actually works out well for European fans who are used to late nights.
- Event Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026 (Europe/US) / Sunday, February 1 (Australia)
- Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
- Broadcast Times (EET – Estonian Time):
- Early Prelims: 12:30 (Sunday morning)
- Prelims: 02:00 (Sunday morning)
- Main Card: 04:00 (Sunday morning)
The main event ring walks are expected around 06:30 EET Sunday morning, making it a perfect “breakfast with the fights” scenario for dedicated fans.
FAQ
Who won the first fight between Volkanovski and Lopes?
Alexander Volkanovski won the first encounter at UFC 314 in April 2025 via unanimous decision. He controlled the distance and out-struck Lopes significantly, although Lopes had dangerous moments in the fourth round.
Is UFC 325 a Pay-Per-View event?
Yes, UFC 325 is a numbered Pay-Per-View event. In most European regions, it is available via local sports broadcasters (like Viaplay or Go3 in the Baltics) or through UFC Fight Pass depending on regional licensing deals.
What time does the main event start in Europe?
The main card starts at roughly 05:00 EET (Eastern European Time) on Sunday morning. You can expect Volkanovski and Lopes to walk to the cage between 07:30 and 08:00 AM.
Has Alexander Volkanovski ever lost in Australia?
Volkanovski has an incredible record on home soil, but he is not invincible. However, his losses in the UFC have primarily come overseas (Abu Dhabi, USA). Fighting in Sydney gives him a significant home-field advantage with the crowd support.
Why is the fight happening in Sydney?
The UFC has a partnership with the New South Wales government to bring major events to Sydney. Additionally, Volkanovski is a native of New South Wales, making this a massive homecoming fight for the champion.
