As the backup fighter for the UFC 308 main event, Diego Lopes really wants the original fight to stay intact.
Max Holloway (26-6) challenges Ilia Topuria (15-0) for the featherweight title in the main event at UFC 308 this Saturday at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Because he is the backup fighter, Lopes could have a shot at the title if he has to step in for someone — but the Brazilian is so excited for the fight that he hopes he doesn’t have to replace anyone. However, if needed, Lopes is in perfect shape and willing to serve his duties as the replacement.
“I’m so excited to watch the fight,” Lopes told MMAjunkie.com. “I hope that Friday morning everything [is] OK. The guys stay healthy for their fight Saturday night… I hope this but if they say they need me, I’m waiting… [My] weight is good, every time I have no problem for the weight.”
UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway Saturday at 2 PM ET on ESPN+. Order Now!
Topuria defeated Alexander Volkanovski via knockout at UFC 298 this past February to be crowned the new champ at 145 pounds. Meanwhile, Holloway comes off an iconic buzzer beater KO over Justin Gaethje in a BMF title fight at UFC 300 in April.
Lopes is currently on a five-fight winning streak that includes three finishes. He is fresh off a unanimous decision win over Brian Ortega at UFC 306 in September. If everything goes as planned on Saturday, Lopes looks forward to fighting Volkanovski, who recently called for an interim title fight against the Brazilian at UFC 312 in Australia on Feb. 9. Regardless of whether it’s for the interim title, Lopes is willing to take on “The Great” in his home country.
“If UFC has this plan, I waiting for the fight with Volk in Australia. I think it’s a big deal for the division, for the next title fight… I’ll wait for the fight this Saturday night but [interim] title or no title, I’m excited for the fight with Volk.”
