Alexander Volkanovski is once again the king of the featherweights.  Volkanovski defeated Diego L...

Alexander Volkanovski is once again the king of the featherweights.Volkanovski defeated Diego Lopes via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46) to capture the vacant 145-pound championship in the UFC 314 main event Saturday night at Kaseya Center in Miami.Volkanovski joined Jose Aldo as the second-ever two-time featherweight champion in UFC history.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 36-year-old Australian returned to the Octagon for the first time since dropping the title in a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 in February 2024.Topuria made one successful defense and then relinquished the belt to move up to the lightweight division, prompting the promotion to schedule the Volkanovski-Lopes bout."It's good to be back," Volkanovski said in his postfight interview. "I promised my girls I would bring the belt back to them. ... A lot of people counted me out."Volkanovski made history with Saturday's victory. He's the first fighter 35 or older to win a UFC title fight at 155 pounds or lighter, lifting the record to 1-17. Volkanovski is also the first fighter to capture an undisputed championship coming off back-to-back losses.The main event was back and forth and earned Fight of the Night honors. Volkanovski started strong, staying busier than Lopes on the feet and stinging him with a left hand. Volkanovski closed the round with a takedown and a few punches from on top.Volkanovski continued to control the pace of the fight in the second round, using his sharp jab to keep Lopes at bay. However, Lopes' takedown defense held up in this stanza and throughout the rest of the fight. In the final seconds of the round, Lopes caught Volkanovski with a hard right, scoring a flash knockdown. Volkanovski survived, but Lopes stole the round on two of three judges' scorecards.Volkanovski bounced back well in the third, landing the more effective punches, but then Lopes hurt him again in the fourth. Lopes hit Volkanovski's eye with a punch and put him on the back foot for over a minute. Lopes aggressively hunted the finish, but Volkanovski held him off and eventually got his bearings back.Volkanovski took a measured approach in the fifth round, outpointing Lopes with his jab and using footwork to stay out of danger. Lopes tried to entice Volkanovski into a fire fight in the final 20 seconds, but Volkanovski stayed calm and sealed the decision victory.Volkanovski got his hand raised for the first time since stopping Yair Rodriguez via TKO at UFC 290 in July 2023. Many questions surrounded Volkanovski ahead of UFC 314 as he was coming off back-to-back knockout losses to Topuria and lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. But Volkanovski largely returned to full form after a 14-month break from the sport.Lopes' five-fight winning streak ended. The No. 3-ranked featherweight hadn't lost since facing Movsar Evloev in his short-notice UFC debut in May 2023.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 12: Alexander Volkanovski of Australia celebrates after defeating Diego Lopes of Brazil to win the featherweight title during UFC 314 at Kaseya Center on April 12, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Volkanovski beats Lopes to reclaim UFC featherweight title

Paddy Pimblett put on a career-best performance against Michael Chandler, dominating him en route...

Paddy Pimblett put on a career-best performance against Michael Chandler, dominating him en route to a TKO finish in the UFC 314 co-main event Saturday night.The referee stepped in at the 3:07 mark of the third round at Kaseya Center in Miami.Pimblett, who entered as the No. 12-ranked lightweight, said afterward he wants to face a top-five opponent next.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I want that world title," Pimblett said. "I want Dustin (Poirier), Justin (Gaethje), Charles (Oliveira), or Arman (Tsarukyan). Any of them four."Pimblett pummeled Chandler on the ground to score the biggest win of his career.Early in the third round, Pimblett opened up a massive cut on Chandler's face with a knee. Moments later, he scored a takedown and took Chandler's back. Pimblett landed a barrage of elbows and punches on the ground and constantly attacked the rear-naked choke. Pimblett continued to rain down punches as he advanced to full mount and then took his back again, forcing the referee to wave off the fight.Pimblett, a 30-year-old from Liverpool, England, improved his UFC record to 7-0 with the victory.Chandler, 38, is now riding a three-fight skid. The former Bellator champion fell to 2-5 in the promotion.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 12: Paddy Pimblett of England punches Michael Chandler in a lightweight bout during the UFC 314 event at Kaseya Center on April 12, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Pimblett mauls Chandler in UFC 314 co-main event

Yair Rodriguez spoiled Patricio "Pitbull" Freire's long-awaited UFC debut, defeating the former B...

Yair Rodriguez spoiled Patricio "Pitbull" Freire's long-awaited UFC debut, defeating the former Bellator two-division champion via unanimous decision at UFC 314 on Saturday night at Kaseya Center in Miami.All three judges scored the fight 30-27 in Rodriguez's favor.Rodriguez, a former UFC interim featherweight champ, had his way with Freire from the start. He scored one knockdown, dropping the Brazilian with a straight right in the third round before pummelling him with ground-and-pound. Rodriguez topped Freire 70-17 in significant strikes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>After the impressive performance, Rodriguez said he wants to challenge the winner of Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes for the featherweight title at UFC 320 on Sept. 13 in Guadalajara, Mexico."I want to fight for the title there," Rodriguez said. "Whoever wins tonight, I want to fight that guy in Mexico."Rodriguez used his reach advantage to keep Freire at a distance and pick him apart. Rodriguez landed several kicks - including a heavy one to Freire's head - and won most of the exchanges.Freire attempted an armbar late in the third, but Rodriguez escaped the submission.With the victory, Rodriguez snapped a two-fight losing streak. This was the 32-year-old's first win since submitting Josh Emmett to claim the interim title in February 2023.Freire, who was coming off a TKO win over former UFC fighter Jeremy Kennedy in a Bellator featherweight title defense in March 2024, is now 1-3 in his past four outings. Freire, 37, was widely considered one of the top fighters to never compete in the UFC before leaving the PFL and signing with the promotion earlier this year.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 12: (L-R) Yair Rodriguez of Mexico kicks Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire of Brazil in a featherweight bout during the UFC 314 event at Kaseya Center on April 12, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Rodriguez spoils Pitbull's UFC debut with decision win

Jean Silva submitted Bryce Mitchell with a ninja choke at the 3:52 mark of the second round at UF...

Jean Silva submitted Bryce Mitchell with a ninja choke at the 3:52 mark of the second round at UFC 314 on Saturday night at Kaseya Center in Miami.Silva, one of the fastest-rising prospects in the featherweight division, moved to 5-0 in the Octagon with the victory. He will likely debut in the top 15 next week after beating Mitchell, who was ranked No. 13 coming in.Silva's performance was tremendous from start to finish. He dropped Mitchell with a straight right early in the second round. Silva got in Mitchell's face and landed several hard shots, including an elbow against the fence and a combination to the head and body.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>With a little more than a minute left in the frame, he got hold of a standing ninja choke, took Mitchell to the ground, and forced the tap. Mitchell was already unconscious when Silva let go of the submission.Silva is now 2-0 in 2025 after scoring a first-round knockout of Melsik Baghdasaryan at a UFC Fight Night event in February. All five of his Octagon wins have been finishes. Silva is one of the top fighters who competes out of the budding Fighting Nerds camp in Brazil, training with the likes of middleweight Caio Borralho and welterweight Carlos Prates.Mitchell, who was coming off a TKO win over Kron Gracie at UFC 310 in December, is now 1-2 in his past three outings.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 12: (L-R) Jean Silva of Brazil works for a submission against Bryce Mitchell in a featherweight bout during the UFC 314 event at Kaseya Center on April 12, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Silva submits Mitchell with ninja choke in 2nd round

Former UFC two-division champion Amanda Nunes will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame this sum...

Former UFC two-division champion Amanda Nunes will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer as part of the 2025 class, the promotion announced Saturday night.Nunes was in attendance at UFC 314 in Miami when play-by-play commentator Jon Anik revealed the news. "The Lioness" trained out of South Florida throughout her career.Widely regarded the greatest women's fighter of all time, Nunes was a longtime champion at bantamweight and featherweight. She retired from mixed martial arts following a win over Irene Aldana at UFC 289 in June 2023, though she <a href="https://x.com/ufc/status/1910791527208804722">hinted</a> at a return to the Octagon earlier this week at the UFC 314 pre-fight press conference.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nunes first captured UFC gold in 2016 when she submitted Miesha Tate in the first round of the UFC 200 main event to become the women's bantamweight champion. She defended the title three times - including against Ronda Rousey - before adding the 145-pound belt with a knockout of Cris Cyborg in 2018.Nunes defended the 135-pound title twice more before dropping it in a shocking defeat to Julianna Pena in 2021. However, she dominated the rematch with Pena to regain the championship the following year. Pena also defended the featherweight title two times.The 36-year-old Brazilian finished her MMA career with a 16-2 record in the UFC and a 23-5 record overall.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - MAY 05: Two-division champion Amanda Nunes is seen on stage during the UFC 289 press conference at Prudential Center on May 05, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Nunes to be inducted into UFC Hall of Fame

theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks for the UFC 314 main-card bouts ahead of Saturday's event...

theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks for the UFC 314 main-card bouts ahead of Saturday's event in Miami.<h3>Featherweight championship</h3>Alexander Volkanovski (26-4) vs. Diego Lopes (26-6)Former champion Alexander Volkanovski is looking to make history when he takes on Diego Lopes for the vacant UFC featherweight title in Saturday's main event.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Fighters 35 and older are 0-17 in UFC title fights at lightweight and below. Volkanovski, 36, was unable to buck the trend in his last fight against Ilia Topuria, but he has a second chance against Lopes.If he gets his hand raised, Volkanovski will be the first fighter 35 or older to win a title fight in the lighter weight classes, and he'll also be the first fighter to claim an undisputed championship after back-to-back losses.Statistically, Volkanovski's back is up against the wall. But if anyone can overcome adversity, return to full form, and begin a second reign as featherweight champion, it's probably "The Great."This fight could come down to whether or not Volkanovski's chin is gone. If it is, don't be too surprised if Lopes lands big punches and puts him away within the first two rounds. Lopes is ferocious on the feet and won't let Volkanovski off the hook if he hurts him.But if Volkanovski weathers the storm - and I ultimately think he will - I see the Australian taking over midway through the fight and using his edge in experience to reach another championship.The pick: Volkanovski, unanimous decision<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/cropped_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/w220xh124_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/w320xh180_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/w640xh360_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/w768xh432_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780039/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2016525326.jpg?ts=1744377200 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3>Lightweight bout</h3>Michael Chandler (23-9) vs. Paddy Pimblett (22-3)This is the moment of truth for Paddy Pimblett: Is he ready to be a contender in the stacked lightweight division?I've gone back and forth on this one way too many times, but yeah, I think Pimblett's ready.Admittedly, it feels weird to be picking Pimblett - a blond, floppy-haired Liverpool native who was never truly expected to be a top contender - over Chandler, a former Bellator champion and UFC title challenger who has fought the who's who of the division. But the more I think about it, the more it seems like Pimblett has a better chance of outworking Chandler, and that'll be crucial if the fight goes to the scorecards.Pimblett is undoubtedly a skilled grappler, but he's also become a competent striker as well. If Saturday's co-main event is on the ground, he'll almost certainly be winning, and if it's on the feet, it could be competitive. Chandler's best path to victory is a knockout, but Pimblett can take a punch - he's never been knocked out in 25 career fights.Let's go with Paddy "The Baddy" to mix the martial arts and score his biggest win to date.The pick: Pimblett, unanimous decision<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/cropped_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3>Featherweight bout</h3>Yair Rodriguez (19-5, 1 NC) vs. Patricio Freire (36-7)Former Bellator two-division champion Patricio "Pitbull" Freire is getting a tough test in his long-awaited UFC debut.And he's going to pass it.On paper, Yair Rodriguez should probably win. He's five years younger than Freire and has a significant height and reach advantage. And this fight is almost surely going to play out on the feet. But something tells me Freire isn't going to let this big opportunity slip away. If he beats Rodriguez, he's suddenly in the top five of the featherweight division and either in line for the next title shot or one win away.Freire is no stranger to having to beat people bigger than him, and he'll stay committed with his jab and low kick to secure a 1-0 start to his Octagon career.The pick: Freire, unanimous decision<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/cropped_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/w220xh124_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/w320xh180_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/w640xh360_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/w768xh432_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758910/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2097713538.jpg?ts=1733351011 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David Fitzgerald / Sportsfile / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3>Featherweight bout</h3>Bryce Mitchell (17-2) vs. Jean Silva (15-2)This fight is either going to be really fun or really bad.Bryce Mitchell is by far the biggest test of Jean Silva's young UFC career, and his grueling - but effective - wrestling style could grind Silva's momentum to a halt.Or Silva could take a move out of Josh Emmett's playbook and score his fifth straight knockout victory.It would be a shame if this fight turns out to be a stinker, given the anticipation surrounding it. Mitchell could play spoiler, but I'll side with Silva to land something big.The pick: Silva, first-round TKO<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/cropped_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780131/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209637342.jpg?ts=1744408210 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mike Roach / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure><h3>Light heavyweight bout</h3>Nikita Krylov (30-9) vs. Dominick Reyes (14-4)Are we witnessing the resurgence of Dominick Reyes?The former light heavyweight title challenger, just 17 months removed from a catastrophic four-fight losing streak, is now seeking his third consecutive victory against Nikita Krylov. And if Reyes does indeed beat Krylov and re-enter the top 10, he'll be approaching the title picture again - something that seemed impossible not long ago.Krylov hasn't fought since a submission win over Ryan Spann in March 2023, but he remains a tough out for most at 205 pounds, including Reyes. But I think Reyes can stay just sharp enough on the feet to eventually find a finish late in the fight.The pick: Reyes, third-round TKO<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/cropped_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/w220xh124_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/w320xh180_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/w640xh360_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/w768xh432_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632748/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2156712383.jpg?ts=1718309156 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure>

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UFC 314 predictions: Will Volkanovski retake featherweight throne?

Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes made weight Friday before squaring off for the vacant feath...

Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes made weight Friday before squaring off for the vacant featherweight title in the UFC 314 main event Saturday in Miami.Volkanovski and Lopes both weighed in at 145 pounds.Lightweight contenders Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett were also on the mark for the co-main event. Both came in at 156 pounds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Here are the full UFC 314 weigh-in results:<h3>Main card (ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Alexander Volkanovski (145) vs. Diego Lopes (145)</li>
<li>Michael Chandler (156) vs. Paddy Pimblett (156)</li>
<li>Yair Rodriguez (146) vs. Patricio Freire (145)</li>
<li>Bryce Mitchell (146) vs. Jean Silva (146)*</li>
<li>Nikita Krylov (206) vs. Dominick Reyes (206)</li>
</ul><h3>Preliminary card (ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Dan Ige (146) vs. Sean Woodson (146)</li>
<li>Yan Xiaonan (116) vs. Virna Jandiroba (116)</li>
<li>Jim Miller (156) vs. Chase Hooper (156)</li>
<li>Darren Elkins (145) vs. Julian Erosa (146)</li>
</ul><h3>Early preliminary card (ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Sedriques Dumas (185) vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (186)</li>
<li>Sumudaerji (126) vs. Mitch Raposo (126)</li>
<li>Tresean Gore (186) vs. Marco Tulio (186)</li>
<li>Nora Cornolle (137.5)** vs. Hailey Cowan (136)</li>
</ul>* Made weight on second attempt; missed by 1 pound on first attempt ** Missed weight by 1.5 pounds, fined 20% of purse

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 11: Alexander Volkanovski of Australia poses on the scale during the UFC official weigh-in at Hyatt Regency on April 11, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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UFC 314 weigh-in results: Volkanovski, Lopes cleared for title fight

Dillon Danis is feeling discouraged after having multiple fights called off in recent weeks.  Dan...

Dillon Danis is feeling discouraged after having multiple fights called off in recent weeks.Danis was scheduled to return to action against former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson in the headliner of the Global Fight League's second event next month. But the GFL's inaugural doubleheader - slated for May 24 and 25 in Los Angeles - was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3263171" href="https://thescore.com/news/3263171">canceled</a> Wednesday.Danis was also supposed to square off with KSI in a boxing match in late March, but the latter withdrew eight days before the event due to an illness.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Being real, I'm frustrated as hell," Danis <a href="https://x.com/dillondanis/status/1910352932366647473">wrote</a> Thursday in a post on X. "I wanted to stay as active as possible for myself and for everyone who supports me in 2025. First KSI canceled on me, then said he wouldn't be fit to reschedule. We couldn't lock in a replacement. I said yes to everyone. And now with the Tony Ferguson fight being moved, I get the criticism."Danis, who rose to fame years ago as a training partner of Conor McGregor, hasn't competed in MMA since 2019 and hasn't stepped into the boxing ring since a disqualification loss to Logan Paul in October 2023. Danis is 2-0 as a professional MMA fighter - with both wins coming under the now-defunct Bellator banner - and 0-1 in pro boxing.Over time, the 31-year-old New Jersey native has gained a reputation for backing out of fights or choosing to sit on the sidelines, but he hopes to change that."I know what people say about me not fighting," Danis wrote. "I don't want that to be the narrative, and I've been doing everything I can to change it. I just want to back up everything I've been saying and prove I'm the best in the world."

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 14: Dillon Danis reacts during the Misfits Heavyweight fight between Logan Paul and Dillon Danis at AO Arena on October 14, 2023 in Manchester, England.

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Danis 'frustrated as hell' after GFL fight cancellation

UFC 314 is upon us.  In Saturday's main event, Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes will battle ...

UFC 314 is upon us.In Saturday's main event, Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes will battle it out for the vacant featherweight title. And in the co-headliner, Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett will square off in a pivotal lightweight matchup.Here are four key storylines ahead of the UFC's return to Kaseya Center in Miami.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Is Volkanovski still one of the best?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/cropped_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/w220xh124_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/w320xh180_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/w640xh360_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/w768xh432_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752014/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2019382334.jpg?ts=1730056625 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Between 2016 and 2023, Volkanovski strung together win after win - and then title defense after title defense - to cement himself as one of the best featherweights in UFC history. But things change quickly in MMA, and there's an enormous amount of doubt surrounding Volkanovski and his career heading into this fight against Lopes. After a 14-month layoff and back-to-back knockout losses, Volkanovski's back is up against the wall in a big way.Volkanovski has some fair excuses for his last two losses against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and featherweight champ Ilia Topuria (the latter of whom officially relinquishes the title when the UFC 314 main event begins). There's no shame in getting knocked out by a bigger man in Makhachev. And some would argue that Volkanovski returned to the Octagon far too soon when he dropped the 145-pound crown to Topuria at UFC 298 in February 2024.But Volkanovski has spent over a year on the sidelines, resting and spending time with his family. Now it's time to see if the 36-year-old Australian is still championship material. Saturday's main event will tell us exactly what we need to know about where Volkanovski stands and what his future looks like.Either the all-time great is still that, or the division has passed him by.<h3>Is Pimblett a real title contender?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/cropped_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738630/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163995624.jpg?ts=1722138635 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure>Pimblett could put himself on track for a title shot starting at UFC 314.The bleach-blond, floppy-haired Liverpool native has always had superstardom in his blood, but ascending to title contention seemed a tad out of reach when he first joined the UFC - especially with guys like Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira at the top of the division.However, that will be Pimblett's reality if he passes the biggest test of his career this weekend - a five-round matchup against Chandler, the UFC's No. 7-ranked lightweight.Pimblett would immediately become one of the most recognizable names in the promotion, and a No. 1 contender bout would likely come knocking later this year.If Pimblett loses, it may be a sign that he'll never get over the hump.<h3>Will 'Pitbull' thrive in the UFC?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/cropped_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/w220xh124_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/w320xh180_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/w640xh360_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/w768xh432_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/621648/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2097712838.jpg?ts=1711147354 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> David Fitzgerald / Sportsfile / Getty</figcaption></figure>At long last, Patricio "Pitbull" Freire is in the UFC.The former Bellator two-division champion will make his highly anticipated debut this weekend in a pivotal featherweight matchup against former interim champ Yair Rodriguez.Long considered one of the best fighters outside the UFC, Freire now has the chance to prove his worth in the premier MMA organization. It'll be fascinating to see how he does.In his prime, Freire hangs with the best of them. His first-round knockout win against Chandler in 2019 holds up very well. The big question is whether or not Freire is too far past his peak. At 37, he's pretty old to be making his UFC debut and even older for a title run, particularly in a lighter division that favors younger talent. Freire looked rejuvenated in his last fight, a third-round TKO of former UFC fighter Jeremy Kennedy in March 2024, but he lost two in a row before that. It's not like Freire has been untouchable these last few years.And if anyone can touch him, it's the 5-foot-11 Rodriguez, who has a 71-inch reach, sharp stand-up skills, and knockout power in all four limbs.That's what makes this a must-watch debut.<h3>Mitchell, Silva could steal the show</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/cropped_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779778/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203878123.jpg?ts=1744239158 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</figcaption></figure>While Volkanovski-Lopes, Chandler-Pimblett, and Rodriguez-Freire have the biggest stakes, the fight that could make the biggest splash at UFC 314 is Bryce Mitchell versus Jean Silva.Silva is one of the most promising up-and-comers in the featherweight division. He has devastating power in his hands and four straight knockout victories as proof. The Fighting Nerds product is getting the biggest test of his career against Mitchell, an elite-level grappler ranked No. 13 at 145 pounds.The lead-up to the fight has been memorable; Mitchell and Silva were the center of attention at March's prefight press conference. Silva brought a globe to the event, poking fun at Mitchell's flat Earth conspiracy theory, and started a "f--k Bryce Mitchell" chant.Buckle up because this one could get pretty wild.

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4 biggest storylines ahead of UFC 314

Former Bellator featherweight Aaron Pico has signed with the UFC, his manager told ESPN's Brett O...

Former Bellator featherweight Aaron Pico has signed with the UFC, his manager told <a href="https://x.com/bokamotoESPN/status/1909729226821190060">ESPN's Brett Okamoto</a>. Pico's UFC debut date and opponent have yet to be announced. The 28-year-old became a free agent earlier this year after his contract with the PFL - which acquired Bellator in 2023 - expired.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pico hasn't stepped into the cage since knocking out Henry Corrales at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champs event in February 2024.Pico has spent his entire MMA career under the Bellator/PFL banner. A former standout freestyle wrestler, he made his pro debut in 2017 and has since compiled a 13-4 record with 11 finishes. He's riding a three-fight winning streak and has lost just once since 2019.The California native is the latest fighter to jump ship from the PFL to the UFC after former Bellator two-division champion Patricio "Pitbull" Freire signed with the promotion in February.Pico joins a stacked UFC featherweight division that includes the likes of Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes, who vie for the vacant title at UFC 314 next weekend in Miami, as well as Yair Rodriguez and Aljamain Sterling.

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - FEBRUARY 24: Aaron Pico walks to the cage before fighting against Henry Corrales during the 2024 PFL vs Bellator: Champs event at Kingdom Arena on February 24, 2024 in Riyadh.

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Former Bellator contender Pico signs with UFC

The middleweight bout between Kelvin Gastelum and Joe Pyfer has been rescheduled for UFC 316 on J...

The middleweight bout between Kelvin Gastelum and Joe Pyfer has been rescheduled for UFC 316 on June 7 in Newark, sources told <a href="https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/4/7/24403368/kelvin-gastelum-vs-joe-pyfer-rebooked-for-ufc-316">MMA Fighting's Damon Martin</a>.Gastelum and Pyfer were slated to meet at UFC Mexico City on March 29, but Pyfer withdrew on the day of the event after coming down with an illness.Gastelum is coming off a unanimous decision win over Daniel Rodriguez last June. The former interim title challenger is 2-1 in his past three Octagon appearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pyfer, a top 185-pound prospect, is seeking his second straight victory after knocking out Marc-Andre Barriault last summer. The 28-year-old holds a 4-1 record in the promotion.UFC 316 will feature a bantamweight title rematch between champion Merab Dvalishvili and former champ Sean O'Malley.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - MARCH 28: (L-R) Opponents Kelvin Gastelum and Joe Pyfer face off during the UFC Fight Night ceremonial weigh-in at CDMX Arena on March 28, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Report: Gastelum-Pyfer rebooked for UFC 316

Undisputed light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol will relinquish the WBC title in order to forg...

Undisputed light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol will relinquish the WBC title in order to forgo Tuesday's purse bid for a fight against mandatory challenger David Benavidez, according to a letter obtained by <a href="https://ringmagazine.com/en/news/bivol-to-vacate-wbc-title-plans-to-proceed-with-beterbiev-trilogy-fight">The Ring's Mike Coppinger</a>.Bivol informed the sanctioning body he plans to move forward with a trilogy bout with Artur Beterbiev instead. The matchup will likely take place in October, a source told <a href="https://x.com/DanRafael1/status/1909342883464818920">boxing reporter Dan Rafael</a>.As a result, Benavidez, who holds the WBC interim light heavyweight title, will be elevated to full champion. He's expected to make his first defense this summer, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeNDaBox/status/1909349812320780794">Boxing Scene's Jake Donovan</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bivol and Beterbiev have fought twice in the last seven months, earning one victory apiece. Bivol claimed the undisputed 175-pound championship with a majority decision win over Beterbiev in February. Beterbiev earned a majority decision in their first fight last October, handing Bivol his first career loss.Bivol will still hold the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles after vacating the WBC belt.Bivol, 24-1 as a professional, is one of the top-ranked pound-for-pound boxers in the world.

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - FEBRUARY 22: Dmitry Bivol Post Fight Press Conference after his win as part of Beterbiev v Bivol 2: The Last Crescendo at Kingdom Arena on February 22, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia.

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Report: Bivol to vacate WBC title, pursue Beterbiev fight

Lerone Murphy continued his rise in the featherweight division Saturday, defeating Josh Emmett vi...

Lerone Murphy continued his rise in the featherweight division Saturday, defeating Josh Emmett via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) in the UFC Fight Night main event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.Murphy remained undefeated with the tactical win, improving to 16-0-1 as a professional. He's tied with Movsar Evloev for the longest active winning streak in the division (eight)."It was all right," Murphy said of his performance. "I had to fight a certain fight. ... I just had to fight my game. He's a dangerous fighter. Everybody knows he's got one-punch knockout power. I couldn't make any mistakes."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Fans in attendance booed Murphy during his postfight interview, seemingly unhappy with the fight's outcome. Murphy responded by calling the victory "easy work."The matchup was competitive from start to finish, with Murphy controlling the distance and staying slightly busier than Emmett on the feet. Murphy peppered Emmett's lead leg with kicks throughout the fight and landed a heavy spinning kick to the body in Round 2.Emmett completed four out of 11 takedowns in the fight but couldn't do much on the ground. Known for his knockout power in the 145-pound division, Emmett struggled to land heavy punches on Murphy, though he connected with few overhand rights in the fourth round. Murphy tagged Emmett with a hard left in the fifth and outstruck Emmett 84-41 in significant strikes overall.Murphy now holds an 8-0-1 record in the UFC. This was the 33-year-old Englishman's second main event in the past 11 months.Emmett and Murphy were ranked No. 8 and No. 10, respectively, coming in. Murphy said he hopes to get another step up in competition following his latest victory."Obviously, I want the title, but give me anybody in that top five, top three even," Murphy said. "Give me one of them guys. I'll fight again in July. Let's go. I just want to keep this train going. I want to get to the championship. I want to stay active. Another two fights this year."Emmett, 40, returned to the Octagon for the first time since his December 2023 knockout of Bryce Mitchell. The former interim title challenger is 1-3 in his last four outings.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 05: Lerone Murphy of England battles Josh Emmett in their featherweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on April 05, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Murphy edges out Emmett in UFC main event to stay undefeated

Filip Hrgovic defeated Joe Joyce via unanimous decision (97-93, 96-95, 98-92) in a heavyweight ma...

Filip Hrgovic defeated Joe Joyce via unanimous decision (97-93, 96-95, 98-92) in a heavyweight main event Saturday at Co-op Live in Manchester, England.Hrgovic is back in the win column after suffering his first career defeat to IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois last June.Hrgovic agreed to fight Joyce three weeks ago, replacing the injured Dillian Whyte. The 32-year-old Croatian is ranked No. 6 at heavyweight by the IBF.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Thanks to Joe for the opportunity," Hrgovic said in his postfight interview. "He took a strong fight on short notice. ... I'm looking forward to being back and some big fights in the future."Hrgovic landed the more effective offense throughout the fight, topping Joyce 253-140 in total punches and 206-73 in power punches. But there were no knockdowns over the 10 rounds.Joyce opened a cut on Hrgovic's face early in the bout, but Hrgovic didn't let that affect him."This guy is like steel," Hrgovic said of Joyce. "I couldn't believe he took all those shots. He's a really, really tough guy. He's a beast. He's very strong."Hrgovic said he's interested in a rematch with Dubois following the bounce-back victory. Dubois defeated Hrgovic via eighth-round TKO in an IBF interim title bout eight months ago. Dubois is coming off a knockout win over former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and is targeting an undisputed title rematch against Oleksandr Usyk next."(Joyce) beat Dubois (in 2020), and I beat him. I want a rematch with Daniel Dubois," Hrgovic said. "I did very bad in my last fight. Congratulations to him. He did an amazing job last year. Of course, I would like to have a rematch one day."Hrgovic lifted his professional record to 18-1 with 14 knockouts.Joyce, a 39-year-old London native, is riding a two-fight losing streak and is 1-4 in his past five outings. Joyce's career record fell to 16-4.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 05: Filip Hrgovic punches Joe Joyce during the Heavyweight fight between Joe Joyce and Filip Hrgovic at Co-op Live on April 05, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Hrgovic beats Joyce in slugfest to rebound from Dubois loss

The 2025 PFL World Tournament kicked off Thursday night at Universal Studios in Orlando, featurin...

The 2025 PFL World Tournament kicked off Thursday night at Universal Studios in Orlando, featuring the opening-round matchups in the welterweight and featherweight divisions.In the main event, former Bellator welterweight champion Jason Jackson submitted Andrey Koreshkov to advance to the semifinals. Jackson put Koreshkov to sleep with a rear-naked choke at the 4:21 mark of the second round. Tap <a href="https://x.com/PFLMMA/status/1908004259112579366">here</a> to watch the finish.Jackson will face Thad Jean in June with a spot in the 170-pound final on the line.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In the co-main event, 2023 PFL featherweight champ Jesus Pinedo finished Adam Borics with strikes in the first round, handing the former Bellator title challenger his first TKO defeat. Tap <a href="https://x.com/PFLMMA/status/1907994014898332033">here</a> to watch the finish.Pinedo advanced to the 145-pound semifinals, where he'll take on Gabriel Braga for the third time.In other main-card action, Logan Storley cruised past Joseph Luciano at welterweight and 2021 PFL featherweight titleholder Movlid Khaybulaev rallied to defeat Jeremy Kennedy by split decision.Storley is scheduled to meet Masayuki Kikuiri and Khaybulaev will battle Tae Kyun Kim in the semifinals.

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2025 PFL tournament results: Jackson chokes Koreshkov unconscious

Former UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley expects to have a much stronger performance in his...

Former UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley expects to have a much stronger performance in his rematch with Merab Dvalishvili than he did in their first fight last year.O'Malley will attempt to regain the 135-pound title when he and Dvalishvili headline UFC 316 on June 7 in Newark. He's confident the outcome will be different because of his recent preparation."If I could just keep this pace up - how we've been able to train these last few weeks all the way up to the fight - I'm going to be 70% better than I was in that first fight," O'Malley said Wednesday on his "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUkd56QFZK0">TimboSugarShow</a>" podcast.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>O'Malley dropped the title to Dvalishvili in a lopsided decision loss at UFC 306 in September. The event marked the promotion's debut at Sphere in Las Vegas.O'Malley tore the labrum in his left hip 10 weeks before the fight and underwent surgery afterward to repair it. "Suga" hasn't stepped into the Octagon since then, while Dvalishvili defended the title for the first time against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 in January.Now fully recovered, O'Malley said his body "hasn't felt this good" since he beat Petr Yan in 2022 - even before he won the title in 2023."I'm going to be significantly more mobile, agile, better shape (in the rematch)," O'Malley said. "I'm gonna fight at my full potential."Whereas that last fight, I was very happy with how I was able to perform considering how I felt. ... I wasn't supposed to win. This rematch was supposed to happen. It's gonna make this win that much more crazy."

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 14: Sean O'Malley prepares to face Merab Dvalishvili of Georgia in the UFC bantamweight championship fight during the UFC 306 at Riyadh Season Noche UFC event at Sphere on September 14, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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O'Malley vows to be '70% better' in Dvalishvili rematch

Benoit Saint Denis will face Joel Alvarez in a lightweight bout at UFC 315 on May 10 in Montreal,...

Benoit Saint Denis will face Joel Alvarez in a lightweight bout at UFC 315 on May 10 in Montreal, sources told <a href="https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/4/2/24399467/ufc-315-lightweight-powerhouses-collide-on-belal-muhammad-vs-jack-della-maddalena-fight-card">MMA Fighting's Mike Heck</a>.Saint Denis, the No. 13-ranked lightweight, is looking to snap a two-fight skid consisting of stoppage losses to Renato Moicano and former interim champion Dustin Poirier. The 29-year-old Frenchman had previously won five straight.Alvarez, unranked in the division, is riding a three-bout winning streak. The 32-year-old Spaniard is coming off a first-round TKO of Drakkar Klose last December. His only loss in the past six years came against current No. 1 contender Arman Tsarukyan.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>A welterweight title bout between champion Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena is scheduled to headline UFC 315 at Bell Centre, which marks the promotion's first trip to Montreal in a decade.

PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 28: Benoit Saint Denis of France prepares to face Renato Moicano of Brazil in a lightweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at The Accor Arena on September 28, 2024 in Paris, France.

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Report: Saint Denis draws Alvarez at UFC 315 in Montreal

Kyoji Horiguchi is vacating the Rizin FF flyweight title and re-signing with the UFC, he announce...

Kyoji Horiguchi is vacating the Rizin FF flyweight title and re-signing with the UFC, he announced Sunday morning at Rizin 50.The UFC has yet to announce Horiguchi's next fight."I'm going to the UFC," Horiguchi <a href="https://x.com/RIZINTV_/status/1906251723297198395">said</a> in Japanese, according to the broadcast. "I'm going to become the first Japanese UFC champion."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old returns to the Octagon after a combined 20-fight stint in Rizin FF and Bellator. During his time in those two promotions, Horiguchi captured the Rizin FF bantamweight title, the Bellator bantamweight title, and, most recently, the Rizin FF flyweight title.Horiguchi went 7-1 in his first run with the UFC, which lasted from 2013-16. He left the organization on a three-fight winning streak after his contract expired. Horiguchi defeated the likes of Ali Bagautinov and Neil Seery, with his lone loss coming in a 2015 title bout against Demetrious Johnson.Horiguchi has put together a 16-3 (1 NC) record since his UFC departure. He has earned wins over the likes of Sergio Pettis, Kai Asakura, Manel Kape, and Darrion Caldwell.The Takasaki, Japan, native is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Nkazimulo Zulu in a Rizin FF flyweight title defense last December. He has won six in a row.Horiguchi trains out of American Top Team in Florida alongside UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.

HONOLULU, HAWAII - APRIL 19: Kyoji Horiguchi addresses the media ahead of his Flyweight bout for Bellator 295 on April 19, 2023, at Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu, Hawaii.

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Ex-title challenger Horiguchi returning to UFC

Former flyweight champion Brandon Moreno got his hand raised in his home country.  Moreno defeate...

Former flyweight champion Brandon Moreno got his hand raised in his home country.Moreno defeated Steve Erceg via unanimous decision in the UFC Mexico City main event Saturday night at Arena CDMX.All three judges scored the fight 49-46 in favor of Moreno, who's from Tijuana, Mexico.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Moreno secured his first victory in Mexico City after producing a 0-2-1 record in his first three fights there, which includes two other main events. The 31-year-old said in his postfight interview that he wants to compete at UFC 320 - this year's Noche UFC event - on Sept. 13 in Guadalajara, Mexico."I really believe I can move the needle (for) the pay-per-view in Guadalajara," Moreno said. "Let's do it."Moreno started quickly in Round 1, landing several left hands and a solid punch to Erceg's body. Moreno tested his opponent's chin with a heavy right.Erceg found his rhythm midway through the fight, beginning to outwork Moreno with crisp boxing. But Moreno got the better of the action in the last two rounds to seal the win.Moreno, ranked No. 2 in the 125-pound division, is now riding a two-fight winning streak after he cruised past Amir Albazi at UFC Edmonton in November.Moreno, a former two-time champion, dropped the title to Alexandre Pantoja in July 2023 before losing a split decision to Brandon Royval in February 2024.Erceg, the No. 8-ranked flyweight, has lost three straight. The Australian - who came up short in a title fight against Pantoja last May - began his Octagon career in 2023 with earned three consecutive wins.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - MARCH 29: (L-R) Brandon Moreno of Mexico punches Steve Erceg of Australia in a flyweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at CDMX Arena on March 29, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Moreno beats Erceg in UFC Mexico City main event

Geoff Neal has withdrawn from his welterweight fight against Carlos Prates at UFC 314 on April 12...

Geoff Neal has withdrawn from his welterweight fight against Carlos Prates at UFC 314 on April 12 in Miami due to an injury, the promotion announced Saturday.Prates will not remain on the card, though UFC play-by-play commentator Jon Anik teased that "big news" involving Prates will come in the next few weeks.Neal, the No. 10-ranked fighter at 170 pounds, is coming off a TKO win over former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 308 last October. He's 1-2 in his past three Octagon appearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Prates, ranked No. 13, is a surging contender in the division. The 31-year-old Brazilian made his UFC debut in February 2024 and has won four straight fights by knockout. Prates most recently finished Neil Magny in the first round last November.A vacant featherweight title bout between former champion Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes will headline UFC 314.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 07: Geoff Neal is seen on stage during the UFC 314 press conference at Michelob ULTRA Arena on March 07, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30786930/related

Neal injured, UFC 314 bout vs. Prates off

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