By FCF Staff

There are plenty of signals the UFC will look to book a rematch between featherweight champ Ilia Topuria and former champ, Alexander Volkanovski next. But, Diego Lopes is doing his part to secure a bout with Volkanovski, if the UFC needs to pivot.

Following Topuria’s emphatic knockout of Max Holloway at UFC 308 last weekend, Volkanovski, who was on hand at the event, entered the Octagon and called for a rematch with the champ. Topuria also echoed a rematch makes sense and UFC CEO Dana White has said the same.

But, during a follow-up appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Lopes made his case for why a fight with “Volk” should materialize (quotes via MMA Fighting.com).

“Ilia mentioned on Saturday night that he wanted to take some time off. Also, UFC mentioned they’re working on a date for Spain. While this is all going on, it would make the most sense for me to just fight ‘Volk’ in Sydney for the interim title. ‘Volk’ has already suggested this. I’ve already agreed to it. Let’s just do it.”

The UFC is returned to Sydney, Australia for UFC 312, which is taking place on February 9th. Volkanovski is from Australia.

“….I’m not really interested in fighting anybody but Volkanovski. It makes the most sense.” Lopes furthered. “If the UFC says we have to wait around for a title shot, then we’ll wait. If we er.com

fight for the interim [title] or Volkanovski, that’s a conversation we’ll have to have with management.”

The 29-year-old Lopes (26-6), who is from Brazil, has won five straight fights. In his last outing, in September, he recorded a unanimous decision win over longtime contender, Brian Ortega.

Then 36-year-old Volkanovski (26-4) hasn’t competed since he was KO’d by Topuria in February.