ABU DHABI – Diego Lopes traveled across the world because of maybe.
Maybe, he’ll fight. Maybe, he won’t.
Four days out from UFC 308, Lopes (26-6 MMA, 5-1 UFC) doesn’t know. He’s the emergency backup for the featherweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
“I’m training for both guys,” Lopes told MMA Junkie at UAE Warriors 55 on Tuesday “… I’m ready for everything, bro.”
In usual classy fashion (though unusually fluent English explanation), Lopes explained that he hopes his services are not needed. He wishes both main event competitors the best and is as excited as the fans to see the fight.
“I’m so excited too, to watch the fight,” Lopes said. “I hope Friday morning that everything is OK and the guys stay healthy for the fight this Saturday. I’m so excited for this Saturday night. … But if the UFC needs me, I’m ready.”
Should he not fight, it’s possible the stars will align for a UFC 312 battle vs. Alexander Volkanovski in Sydney. The event is scheduled for Feb. 8 (Feb. 9 local). At a recent press conference announcing the event, Volkanovski (26-4 MMA, 13-3 UFC) name-dropped Lopes as a potential opponent.
Lopes loves that idea and said if his services aren’t needed at UFC 308, he’s ready and hopeful a fight vs. Volkanovski comes to fruition.
“If UFC has this plan, yeah,” Lopes said. “I’m ready for the fight vs. Volkanovski in Australia. I think it’s the biggest deal for the division for the next title fight. If the UFC me as the fighter to fight Volkanovski in Australia, I’m ready. … Title or no title, I’m excited for the fight vs. Volk.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 308.
