Diego Lopes is gearing up for a challenging task as he gets ready to fight and provide corner support in two significant matches in Las Vegas, Nevada, at Noche UFC at The Sphere. Over the past few years, fans have witnessed Lopes steadily climbing the ranks in the featherweight division, steadily approaching the top of his weight class. Originally scheduled to square off against Brian Ortega at UFC 303 in June, Lopes found himself facing Dan Ige due to Ortega’s last-minute withdrawal. Despite the change in opponent, Lopes claimed a victory with a unanimous decision, advancing his UFC record to 4-1.
Lopes is now slated for a rematch against Ortega at Noche UFC in Las Vegas, a pivotal bout with potential title implications for the victor. However, a dilemma arises for Lopes, who also intends to show his support for his teammate, UFC women’s flyweight champion Alexa Grasso, defending her title against Valentina Shevchenko in a trilogy fight on the same night.
Lopes aims to dispatch Ortega swiftly to make it in time to be in Grasso’s corner for her championship showdown. While this game plan may be tight, Lopes has been backing Grasso since her move to the 125-pound weight class in 2020.
Sharing his thoughts with MMA Fighting, Lopes expressed, “We have had numerous discussions on how to manage this situation because I have been supporting her since she transitioned to 125 pounds. We collaborate, assist each other, exchange knowledge, but we are uncertain about our strategy. After my fight comes Alexa’s. We are aware of the toll a fight can take, particularly considering Ortega’s toughness. It might be a grueling battle where both of us may emerge worse for wear. Yet, I remain focused. This offers me extra incentive to emerge unscathed in my fight, secure a quick victory, and swiftly transition to be in Alexa’s corner.”
