UFC 314: Volkanovski vs. Lopes – The Ultimate Showdown Preview
April 12, 2025 – Pay-Per-View Event Breakdown & Predictions
The UFC returns with another electrifying Pay-Per-View spectacle, UFC 314: Volkanovski vs. Lopes, set to ignite the Octagon on April 12, 2025. Headlined by a featherweight clash between the legendary Alexander Volkanovski and the surging contender Diego Lopes, this card promises fireworks from start to finish.
With championship implications, rising stars, and potential Fight of the Year candidates, UFC 314 is shaping up to be an unmissable event. In this in-depth preview, we break down every fight, analyze key matchups, and deliver bold predictions.
Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes – Featherweight War
The King vs. The Dark Horse
Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski (26-4-0) needs no introduction. The former featherweight champion, known for his relentless pressure, elite fight IQ, and granite chin, looks to reclaim his throne after a series of hard-fought battles. Despite recent setbacks, Volk remains one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history.
Standing across from him is Diego Lopes (25-6-0), the Brazilian submission specialist who has taken the division by storm. With a lethal ground game and ever-improving striking, Lopes has rapidly climbed the rankings, finishing his last four opponents. A win over Volkanovski would catapult him into title contention.
Fight Breakdown
- Striking:Â Volkanovski holds a clear edge with his crisp boxing, leg kicks, and ability to control distance. Lopes, however, has shown knockout power in recent fights.
- Grappling: Lopes is a BJJ black belt with dangerous submissions, but Volkanovski’s wrestling and defensive grappling are elite.
- Cardio & Durability: Volk’s legendary gas tank could be the difference if this goes into deep waters.
Prediction: Volkanovski by unanimous decision in a five-round war.
Co-Main Event: Paulo Costa vs. Sean Strickland – Middleweight Grudge Match
Brazilian Power vs. American Chaos
After years of trash talk, Paulo “The Eraser” Costa (15-3-0) and Sean “Tarzan” Strickland (28-6-0) finally collide in what promises to be a violent, high-paced battle.
- Costa’s Path to Victory: Brutal body kicks and power punches to overwhelm Strickland early.
- Strickland’s Path to Victory: Volume striking, cardio, and relentless pressure to drown Costa in later rounds.
Prediction: Strickland by split decision in a bloody war.
Main Card Breakdown
1. Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Ricky Simón – Bantamweight Showdown
The 19-year-old phenom Raul Rosas Jr. (10-1-0) faces his toughest test yet in Ricky SimĂłn (21-4-0), a grinding wrestler with heavy hands.
- Key Factor: Can Rosas Jr.’s submission game overcome Simón’s top control?
- Prediction:Â Rosas Jr. by submission in Round 2.
2. Maycee Barber vs. Natalia Silva – Flyweight Title Eliminator
Two of the division’s most explosive strikers collide, with the winner likely earning a title shot.
- Prediction:Â Silva by TKO in Round 3.
3. Jalin Turner vs. Renato Moicano – Lightweight Battle
A classic striker vs. grappler matchup with major implications at 155 lbs.
- Prediction:Â Turner by KO in Round 1.
Prelim Highlights
- Joanne Wood vs. Tracy Cortez – A potential retirement fight for Wood.
- Uros Medic vs. Natan Levy – Fireworks guaranteed in this striker’s duel.
- Jake Hadley vs. Charles Johnson – Flyweight grappling chess match.
Final Thoughts & Betting Picks
UFC 314 is stacked with must-see fights, from the high-stakes main event to the undercard bangers. Here are our best bets:
- Volkanovski by Decision (+150)
- Strickland vs. Costa Goes Distance (-120)
- Rosas Jr. Submission (+200)
Don’t miss UFC 314: Volkanovski vs. Lopes – Live on PPV this Saturday, April 12, 2025!
Will Volkanovski prove he’s still elite? Can Lopes shock the world? Tune in to find out!