Jean Silva reveals why Diego Lopes will fight for the belt at UFC 325.

Diego Lopes defeated Jean Silva in the main event of UFC Noche . Photo montage by SUPER LUTAS.

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Jean Silva has a theory to explain why Diego Lopes jumped the queue in the race for the featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg). Even coming off a recent loss to Alexander Volkanovski , the Brazilian surprised fans by being announced as the title challenger in the main event of UFC 325. According to the representative from Fighting Nerds, there's a clear reason behind the UFC's decision.

In an interview with the channel 'Laerte Viana na Área MMA', Jean Silva stated that Diego Lopes earned the opportunity by overcoming a big-name opponent who carried the hype of the category: himself. According to the athlete, the UFC's choice indicates that the organization wants to promote a rematch between them in a title fight.

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“I thought it was incredible. Diego beat a guy with a name, he beat a guy who was carrying the division on his shoulders. Who was carrying the division on his shoulders in terms of hype? Me. Was there another guy? Topuria had moved up, Volkanovski, even as champion, didn't generate as much hype for the division as I did. So there wasn't another guy… I thought it was great, because for sure, if he wins, we'll take his belt, we'll see that happen. And if he loses, I'll also fight for the belt, because Volkanovski will retire,” said Diego Lopes.

Jean Silva also emphasized that he will be rooting for Diego Lopes , as he does not consider it acceptable for Brazilians to support foreign athletes against their compatriots. Therefore, he guarantees that he will support his rival in the duel against Volkanovski.

"I'm going to root for the guy. I won't accept a Brazilian rooting for me when I'm fighting a foreigner. Brother, he's going to fight Volkanovski and I'm going to root for him," concluded 'Lord'.

Rivalry between Diego Lopes and Jean Silva

Diego Lopes punishes Jean Silva at UFC Noche . Photo: Reproduction/X.

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After months of taunting, Jean Silva and Diego Lopes shared the octagon in the main event of Noche UFC on September 13th. In the fight, 'El Brabo' dominated the first round and was nearly knocked out in the second, when he landed a spinning elbow that knocked out the Fighting Nerds representative. After the fight, Diego Lopes argued with Jean Silva 's team and was pushed from behind by his rival.

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