Alexander Volkanovski showed off the gruesome cuts he sustained in his unanimous decision win over Diego Lopes at UFC 314, while also praising his opponent for a brutal battle that tested his toughness.
“The Great” reclaimed the featherweight crown at the age of 36, becoming the first fighter over 35 to capture a title in the lighter divisions and joining Jose Aldo as a two‑time champion in the weight class.
Alexander Volkanovski Details Serious Injuries Suffered From the UFC 314 Main Event Battle
The Australian set the tone early, outworking Lopes with sharp jabs and leg kicks in the opening round. Lopes rallied in the fourth, landing a heavy uppercut that snapped Volkanovski’s head back and turned the tide briefly. Volkanovski adjusted his footwork and jab in the final rounds to secure control, earning a clean sweep on the judges’ scorecards. The win improved his pro record to 27‑4, while Lopes saw his five‑fight winning streak getting snapped, falling to 26‑7.
Speaking on his YouTube channel after the fight, Volkanovski revealed the extent of the damage he absorbed:
“I’ve got cuts inside my mouth, and it’s tough to even chew,” he admitted. “Lopes really landed some heavy shots. I’ll feel those for weeks.” Despite the pain, he reserved praise for his foe: “Diego’s a warrior. He didn’t want to hurt me, but look at these scars—mate, you did great.”
Alexander Volkanovski reveals he has cuts in his mouth and is struggling to eat, and he praises Lopes for the pain caused.
“There are cuts in my mouth, making it hard to eat. I’ll be feeling the pain from Lopes for a couple of weeks. I mean, he’s a good dude—he doesn’t want to… pic.twitter.com/QPsEnAPf9K
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 15, 2025
Fans React to Alexander Volkanovski’s Gnarly Injuries
Social media lit up with concern and admiration for the champion’s durability:
“Lucky he didn’t finish ya, count your blessings that was a close one.”
Lucky he didn’t finish ya, count your blessings that was a close one😂
— Sk (@MasterBoxer22) April 16, 2025
“Hell of a fight. Good on both Warriors, and glad Diego came out of it better than he went in, I’d say. This fight solidified him as a true competitor. You didn’t beat the old man, but you earned his respect 💪🏽,” wrote another admirer of the Brazilian contender.
“Volk needed this for his sanity,” quipped a third, alluding to the champion’s rebound from his recent setback.
With this victory, Volkanovski not only silenced critics questioning his age but also reset the featherweight hierarchy. Lopes, meanwhile, demonstrated he belongs among the division’s elite despite coming up short.