Diego Lopes eyes lightweight after Volkanovski featherweight roadblock

Diego Lopes is ready to leave featherweight behind after two failed title challenges against Alexander Volkanovski.

The Brazilian, who stopped Steve Garcia at UFC Freedom 250 earlier this month, told MMA Fighting that he wants his next bout at lightweight. With Volkanovski still holding the strap, Lopes said another crack at the belt looks distant. "As long as Volkanovski doesn't retire, it's going to be hard to get another title shot," he said. "I'd have to be rooting for him to lose, but I'd rather see him retire as champion because he was such a great champion for the division."

Lopes open to bouncing between divisions if UFC allows it

Lopes served as backup for Ilia Topuria versus Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250, but his conversations with the promotion have shifted toward 155 pounds. "I have this desire to move up to 155 and take on an exciting fight," he said. "We actually talked more about the lightweight division than the featherweight division."

If the UFC lets him compete in both weight classes, Lopes would take that arrangement. But if forced to pick one, lightweight is the choice. "Considering where things stand right now, and with Volkanovski still being the champion, I think I'd choose 155," he said.

No opponent or date has been announced for Lopes' next appearance.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Diego Lopes considers move to lightweight after UFC featherweight stalemate