Diego Lopes is ready for a new chapter in his UFC career. Fresh off a spectacular knockout victory at the UFC White House event, Lopes has confirmed that he is moving up to lightweight and is already in “pretty advanced talks” regarding his next opponent.
“We’re already in pretty advanced talks about the next opponent. We’re hoping we can get it finalized this week. I want to fight in November at MSG. I think that’s a good date for me, and it also gives me enough time to adapt my weight a little more for 155.” (via AgFight)
Diego Lopes Eyes Fresh Start at 155 Pounds
The move comes after Diego Lopes established himself as one of the UFC’s top featherweights but came up short in both of his title opportunities against Alexander Volkanovski.
With a third shot at the 145-pound championship becoming increasingly difficult to secure, Lopes appears ready to pursue a new path at lightweight rather than wait for another title opportunity.
The Brazilian has also developed a reputation for stepping up whenever the UFC needs him. At the White House event, Lopes was brought in as a last-minute backup for the Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria title fight, once again showing his willingness to remain ready for major opportunities.
That willingness to accept short-notice assignments has been a recurring theme throughout his UFC career.
Diego Lopes Wants November Return at Madison Square Garden
Now, following another impressive victory, Lopes is targeting a November return at Madison Square Garden.
The timeline would give him several months to adapt his body to the 155-pound division while potentially allowing the UFC to match him with a high-profile lightweight contender.
After two unsuccessful featherweight title attempts, Lopes appears to believe that moving up could provide a fresh opportunity to climb the rankings and eventually compete for UFC gold.
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