UPDATE: Alexander Volkanovski is set to defend his UFC title on home turf in Sydney, marking his first Octagon appearance in Australia since early 2023. The featherweight champion will face Diego Lopes in the headline event of UFC 325 on February 1, 2024 (AEDT), just 90 minutes from his hometown of Windang.
This long-awaited title defense is particularly significant for Volkanovski, whose last fight in New South Wales dates back to November 2017, when he defeated Shane Young. The announcement was made by UFC president Dana White during an Instagram Live session on Thursday evening, igniting excitement among Australian fight fans eager to witness Volkanovski’s return.
The featherweight champion, boasting a professional record of 27 wins and 4 losses, is coming off a victory over Lopes, whom he defeated by unanimous decision at UFC 314 in Miami last April. This rematch is anticipated not just as a chance for Volkanovski to solidify his dominance but also as a farewell performance for fans who are eager to see him before he potentially retires.
In addition to Volkanovski’s title fight, the UFC 325 card is expected to feature a robust lineup of local talent, including fighters like Jimmy Crute and Quillan Salkilld. However, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has confirmed he will not participate in this event.
The upcoming fight is particularly poignant for Volkanovski, who has expressed a desire to compete in Sydney for years. With timing previously hindering his plans, fans are now thrilled to see their champion finally taking the Octagon in his home city.
Moreover, UFC 325 will also showcase an interim lightweight title bout between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje, with the winner poised to challenge champion Ilia Topuria later in 2026. These developments underscore the growing excitement surrounding the event, drawing attention not only from local spectators but also from the global MMA community.
As fight night approaches, all eyes will be on Sydney, where Volkanovski aims to deliver an unforgettable performance in front of his home crowd. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for this thrilling showdown, as it promises to be a highlight in the UFC calendar and a potential farewell to one of its most celebrated champions.
Stay tuned for more updates as the fight date approaches, and prepare for an electrifying night of MMA action on February 1, 2024.
