Many were surprised by the next test that Alexander Volkanovski will face in the UFC octagonincluding the featherweight champion’s coach. During an interview with Submission radioJoe Lopez addressed his feelings regarding his leadership in a follow-up conflict with Diego Lopes.
When he responded to the news about the Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2 featherweight title clash for UFC 325 in January, Lopez said:
“It was a bit of a shock, like for everyone, because no disrespect to Diego – I think he’s a great fighter – but we just beat him. On paper, Movsar and Murphy are probably more deserving of that title shot, but we don’t call the shots. That’s up to the UFC and they gave us Diego. That’s the card they dealt us and that’s the one we have to play.”
“The fans aren’t happy. A few guys have told me about the reactions and they haven’t been very positive. No disrespect to Diego, but when you beat him last time, and it wasn’t like it was a close fight – it was very one-sided – you wonder why you wouldn’t try Murphy or Movsar. That’s my opinion anyway.”
Alexander Volkanovski agrees with his coach’s sentiment
Alexander Volkanovski also agrees with Joe Lopez on taking back the title with the man he claimed it from to begin his new reign earlier this year.
The 145-pound multiple kingpin addressed this in a video posted to his YouTube channel, with a clip created and used by X account @ChampRDSVolkanovski stated:
“UFC really wanted Lopes, but at least everyone knows they’re in for a treat. With Movsar and Lerone they deserve more. But are they going to bring the fight like Lopes would? I think the fans will appreciate the fight me and Lopes will have.”
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