Diego Lopes discusses potential move to UFC lightweight division
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 1:40 PM
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
Diego Lopes, a UFC fighter, aims for lightweight competition after a recent victory. He believes the lighter weight class offers better matchups and less weight-cutting stress, citing losses to current featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski as a factor in his decision. Lopes has communicated his intentions with UFC officials, who are receptive to the idea. He emphasizes that the top lightweight fighters align well with his fighting style, making the switch appealing as he seeks engaging bouts.
- •Lopes is weighing a shift to the lightweight division.
- •Past losses to Volkanovski influence his consideration.
- •He spoke with UFC officials who support the move.
- •Lopes highlights exciting matchups in the lightweight top five.
- •The decision focuses on reducing weight-cutting challenges.
- 1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Diego Lopes likes idea of shifting weight classes – and says UFC does, too
"Diego Lopes is eying the top five – but maybe not in the UFC featherweight division.
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