At UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski faces Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title. The announcement took place after Ilia Topuria vacated the belt to pursue a second lightweight title, leaving the throne wide open. Volkanovski sees this as a chance to reclaim what was once his after back-to-back knockout losses. For Lopes, it’s the end result of years of hard work, a chance to prove his place among the division’s finest. The trash-talking has begun, with ‘The Great’ firing warning shots toward the Brazilian. However, it seems like there is no backing down.

While Alexander Volkanovski understands the challenge ahead, he remains confident in his ability to bounce back. All geared up to get back on his winning ways while also getting the title that he once held, ‘The Great’ said that he would prove all his doubters wrong on April 12th. “Lopes is obviously a dangerous dude. It’s a bit of a different matchup compared to Ilia. But I’m really looking forward to this one. People think my time is done? I hope they do. I can’t wait to prove them wrong on April 12th.” He further added, “He’s a great dude; I respect him. But sorry, mate, that ain’t happening. I’m still here.”

However, the Brazilian fighter too had some words of his own to share. Taking to his X account, Diego Lopes fired back with a tweet that highlights how he has fought his way to the title shot.

Now that he has the opportunity, there is no stopping him. He tweeted, “I have worked like no one else in recent years. I have accepted challenges and dares that the UFC has put in front of me, I have said yes in every situation, even when it was not favorable for me. In less than 2 years within the UFC, I will have my opportunity for the title. I will not fail. Dream, believe, and make it happen. #AndNew”

With both competitors pumped up, UFC 314 is setting up to be a clash of experience vs. momentum. ‘The Great’ is determined to retake his reign, but Lopes, with his winning ways, is determined to be Volkanovski’s biggest hurdle. However, it seems like there is another challenger who has his eyes on the belt. In fact, he even sent a warning to both ‘The Great’ and Lopes. So, who is this mystery fighter?

Patricio Pitbull declares war against Alexander Volkanovski & Diego Lopes

While Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes continue to exchange jibes ahead of their UFC 314 title fight, another name has entered the conversation: Patrick ‘Pitbull’ Freire. The former Bellator champion, who recently signed a UFC contract, has wasted no time in making his presence known. As UFC CEO Dana White revealed the packed UFC 314 card, Freire made a bold claim regarding his plans for the company.

Freire’s highly awaited UFC debut against Yair Rodriguez is set for April 12 in Miami, but he’s already planning forward. He took to social media and shared the UFC’s official page, promoting UFC 314 with the caption, “It’s time to conquer a new crown. @ufc Featherweights, your future king has arrived!” The message was clear: Freire was not only coming to participate but to dominate. And, with Volkanovski and Lopes competing for the featherweight title in the main event, ‘Pitbull’ made it clear he was paying close attention.

It is worth noting that his intentions haven’t been unknown, though. Back in December 2024, Freire spoke with MMA Junkie about his goal to fight against the UFC’s top featherweights. “If I can’t get a title shot right away, give me someone who could lead me there sooner rather than later,” he stated, naming Volkanovski, Lopes, Rodriguez, and Ortega as possible opponents. With his debut set, ‘Pitbull has the opportunity to back up his claims and shake up the division. But first, all eyes will be on UFC 314 to see who becomes the next champion. What do you think? Who will be the next featherweight kingpin? Let us know in the comments.