The UFC has announced that Alexander Volkanovski will return to the Octagon on home soil for the first time since his lightweight title challenge in early 2023, and is set to fight against Diego Lopes for the second time in a row at the forthcoming event.
Volkanovski has fought for the second time in his home of New South Wales since triumphing over Shane Young in November 2017.
The UFC president Dana White has made an announcement via Instagram on Thursday evening that Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje will compete for the interim championship.
UFC fans have been eagerly waiting to experience an intriguing fight before Volkanovski enters retirement.
The Australian has long fostered a desire to again fight in the Harbour City, but timings always remained a central problem.
Fans will be able to see one of Australia’s megastars defend his belt on home soil, and the event will kick off with a new partnership for UFC in the region.
In addition, Volkanovski will now look forward to defeating Lopes for the second time, following his decisive victory in Miami at UFC 314 last April.
