The Featherweight King returns home. On February 1, 2026 (Saturday, Jan. 31 in the U.S.), UFC 325 lands at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, featuring a massive title rematch between reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski and the dangerous challenger Diego Lopes. With the promotion officially entering its new broadcast era on Paramount+, this event promises to be one of the highest-stakes cards of the year.

After a tactical chess match at UFC 314 saw Volkanovski reclaim the vacant throne, Lopes has clawed his way back to contender status with a violent finish of Jean Silva. Now, they run it back in Volkanovski’s backyard. Can “The Great” close the door on the rivalry, or will Lopes’ chaotic finishing ability silence the Aussie crowd? This UFC 325 Preview breaks down the main event, the key main card bouts, and everything you need to know before fight night.

UFC 325 Event Information

• Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026 (Australia) / Saturday, January 31, 2026 (USA)
• Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, Australia
• Broadcast: Paramount+ (Prelims & Main Card)
• Start Time (approx):
  • Main Card: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT
  • Prelims: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT

Main Event Breakdown: Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2

The Narrative: Precision vs. Chaos

The first meeting between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes at UFC 314 was a masterclass in distance management. Volkanovski, utilizing his fight IQ and cardio, neutralized Lopes’ explosive grappling entries to win a unanimous decision. However, Lopes had his moments, particularly in the early scrambles where his submission threat forced the champion to disengage.

For the rematch, the dynamic shifts. Lopes has had nearly a year to adjust to championship rounds, while Volkanovski—now 37—is fighting to prove his physical prime hasn’t faded. The “home field advantage” in Sydney is undeniable, but it brings immense pressure.

Technical Keys to Victory

• Volkanovski’s Volume & Feints: In the first fight, Volkanovski disrupted Lopes’ rhythm with constant feints and low kicks. To win the rematch, he must avoid prolonged grappling exchanges. Expect him to use his jab to keep Lopes on the end of his range, punishing the challenger’s legs to stifle his explosive takedown entries.
• Lopes’ submission Threat: Diego Lopes is a “glass cannon” of grappling—extremely dangerous but reliant on chaos. He cannot afford to play a slow-paced kickboxing match with Volkanovski. His path to victory lies in creating scrambles, pulling guard if necessary, and hunting for the neck or limbs instantly. If he can force Volkanovski to defend a submission early, he can drain the champion’s gas tank.

Main Card Spotlight: Violence Guaranteed

Co-Main Event: Dan Hooker vs. Benoît Saint-Denis

If the main event is a chess match, the co-main event is a demolition derby. Dan “The Hangman” Hooker defends his Top-10 lightweight ranking against the relentless Frenchman Benoît Saint-Denis. Hooker’s resurgence has been built on crisp knees up the middle and durability, but Saint-Denis brings a pace that few can match. This fight is a prime candidate for Fight of the Night honors.

Tai Tuivasa vs. Tallison Teixeira

Western Sydney’s own Tai Tuivasa returns to the Octagon looking to snap a losing skid. He faces the towering Brazilian heavyweight Tallison Teixeira. For Tuivasa, the strategy is simple: close the distance, unleash the “Bam Bam” overhand, and ignite the crowd with a shoey. Teixeira, however, possesses the reach to pick Tuivasa apart from the outside. Expect heavy leather to be thrown from the opening bell.

UFC 325 Fight Card

Card subject to change.

• Main Event (Featherweight Title): Alexander Volkanovski (c) vs. Diego Lopes
• Co-Main Event (Lightweight): Dan Hooker vs. Benoît Saint-Denis
• Lightweight: Rafael Fiziev vs. Mauricio Ruffy
• Heavyweight: Tai Tuivasa vs. Tallison Teixeira

Why This Fight Matters

A win for Volkanovski cements his legacy as the greatest featherweight of all time, potentially clearing out the division for a new generation of contenders like Movsar Evloev. For Lopes, a victory completes one of the most rapid rises in UFC history, going from short-notice debutant to Undisputed Champion in less than three years. With the new Paramount+ deal in full swing, the eyes of the mainstream sports world will be on Sydney.

FAQ: UFC 325

What time does UFC 325 start in the US?

The main card is scheduled to begin at 10:00 PM ET (7:00 PM PT) on Saturday, January 31. The prelims typically start two hours prior.

How can I watch UFC 325?

UFC 325 will be streamed live on Paramount+ in the United States. In Australia, the event is available on Main Event PPV via Kayo Sports.

Did Volkanovski and Lopes fight before?

Yes. They fought at UFC 314 in April 2025 for the vacant title. Alexander Volkanovski won via unanimous decision in a highly competitive bout.

Who is the favorite in the main event?

Opening odds generally favor the champion, Volkanovski, due to his experience and the decisive nature of their first meeting. However, Lopes’ finishing ability makes him a dangerous live underdog.