Diego Lopes has expressed his belief that Movsar Evloev is poised to become the next title contender in the UFC featherweight division, instead of Yair Rodriguez. This prediction comes amid ongoing tensions and speculations about who will face champion Alexander Volkanovski next.
Conflict Between Lopes and Rodriguez Influences Title Shot Predictions
Lopes and Rodriguez have a history of hostility, having exchanged heated words during a press event leading up to UFC 314. Lopes publicly challenged Rodriguez to a fight later this year at UFC Noche, a call that Rodriguez reportedly declined. Lopes believes this refusal could damage Rodriguez’s chances of securing another title opportunity despite rumors suggesting otherwise. Speaking to MMA Fighting, Lopes stated that Evloev would be the proper next challenger if he defeats Aaron Pico. He explained:
“After this guy refused the fight with me, I don’t know if UFC [grants] the title fight [to] him. I think Movsar is next. [If] Movsar wins the fight with Aaron Pico, I think 100 percent UFC [makes that fight for] the card in Abu Dhabi in October.”
Diego Lopes Comments on Potential Opponents and Critiques Rodriguez’s Demeanor
In addition to discussing title contention, Lopes shared his eagerness to return to competition and named Jean Silva and Arnold Allen as possible next opponents. Despite his willingness to face any ranked fighter that the UFC assigns him, he remains critical of Rodriguez, whom he described as appearing anxious in a recent video response. Lopes commented on Rodriguez’s attitude and his own readiness to fight, saying:
“I think [that Rodriguez] is so nervous in the video. This guy is talking a lot, but has no sense or context in his words.”
“Now, for me, I’m okay with any fight that the UFC sends [my way]. I want to fight Yair, but Yair said nothing. I don’t know. Maybe Jean Silva, Arnold Allen, everyone that’s in the ranking, I’m waiting for the fight.”
Implications for the Featherweight Division and Upcoming Fights
The ongoing rivalry between Diego Lopes and Yair Rodriguez, paired with Evloev’s undefeated status, adds complexity to the featherweight title picture. Should Evloev overcome Aaron Pico, he is widely expected to challenge Alexander Volkanovski in Abu Dhabi this October. Lopes’ stance highlights the growing tension as fighters jockey for position in the division, making each upcoming matchup critical for title contention.
How the UFC responds to these dynamics will likely shape the championship roadmap, affecting not only the fighters involved but also fans anticipating the next big showdown in the featherweight division.