UFC 314 has been one of the most anticipated events in the UFC calendar, with the main event featuring a highly competitive matchup between reigning Featherweight Champion Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski and the promising contender, Lopes. This showdown is expected to be a clash of styles, with Volkanovski’s exceptional fight IQ and well-rounded skill set facing off against Lopes’ explosive striking and aggression. As the event approaches, fans and analysts alike are eagerly discussing every detail of the fight card, cancellations, weigh-ins, and predictions for the big night.
Fight Card
UFC 314 promises an exciting night of action, with a lineup filled with top-tier fighters from various weight classes. Apart from the much-anticipated main event, there are several other intriguing matchups scheduled.
Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Lopes
The featherweight division will take center stage as Alexander Volkanovski defends his title against the rising star Lopes. Volkanovski has been nearly unbeatable in recent years, with victories over fighters like Max Holloway and Brian Ortega. He is known for his exceptional cardio, versatile striking, and dominant wrestling. Lopes, on the other hand, is a dangerous contender with powerful strikes, unorthodox movements, and a fierce determination to make a statement.
Co-Main Event: Gilbert Burns vs. Vicente Luque
In a highly anticipated welterweight bout, two Brazilian fighters, Gilbert Burns and Vicente Luque, will face off. Burns, a jiu-jitsu specialist with knockout power, will look to put on an impressive performance and move closer to another title shot. Luque, known for his aggressive striking, will look to disrupt Burns’ strategy and claim a victory in this highly competitive matchup.
Lightweight Bout: Islam Makhachev vs. Rafael dos Anjos
The lightweight division will see another exciting clash between Islam Makhachev and Rafael dos Anjos. Makhachev, a rising star and potential future champion, brings a strong wrestling and sambo game to the octagon. Dos Anjos, a former lightweight champion, will rely on his experience, Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills, and striking to secure the win.
Flyweight Bout: Brandon Moreno vs. Kai Kara-France
A thrilling flyweight bout is also set between the former champion Brandon Moreno and Kai Kara-France. Both fighters are known for their exciting, fast-paced style, and this fight is expected to deliver fireworks.
| Fight | Weight Class | Fighters |
|---|---|---|
| Main Event | Featherweight (145 lbs) | Alexander Volkanovski vs. Lopes |
| Co-Main Event | Welterweight (170 lbs) | Gilbert Burns vs. Vicente Luque |
| Lightweight Bout | Lightweight (155 lbs) | Islam Makhachev vs. Rafael dos Anjos |
| Flyweight Bout | Flyweight (125 lbs) | Brandon Moreno vs. Kai Kara-France |
Cancellations
As with any major UFC event, fight cancellations are always a concern, and UFC 314 has experienced its share of issues leading up to the event. Here are some key cancellations and adjustments made to the original fight card:
-
Michael Chiesa vs. Neil Magny: This highly anticipated welterweight clash was canceled due to an injury sustained by Michael Chiesa. Chiesa’s withdrawal was a significant blow to the card, as fans were eager to see how he would match up against the seasoned veteran Neil Magny.
-
Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs. Curtis Blaydes: Another unfortunate cancellation occurred in the heavyweight division, as Rozenstruik was forced to withdraw due to a training injury. The UFC was unable to find a suitable replacement on short notice, leading to the fight being removed from the card.
Despite these cancellations, the event still promises to be one of the most thrilling UFC cards in recent memory, with several exciting bouts still scheduled.
Weigh-Ins
The weigh-ins for UFC 314 took place the day before the event, and the fighters made their way to the scales to ensure they were on target for their respective weight classes. Here’s a summary of how the fighters performed:
| Fighter | Weight | Opponent | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexander Volkanovski | 145 lbs | Lopes | 145 lbs |
| Gilbert Burns | 171 lbs | Vicente Luque | 170.5 lbs |
| Islam Makhachev | 155 lbs | Rafael dos Anjos | 156 lbs |
| Brandon Moreno | 125 lbs | Kai Kara-France | 125 lbs |
All the fighters successfully made weight, which was a huge relief for the UFC and fans, as there are always concerns about last-minute complications during weigh-ins. The atmosphere was electric as each fighter stepped onto the scale, with Volkanovski and Lopes being the center of attention.
Predictions
As the event draws closer, the predictions for UFC 314 are rolling in from analysts, fighters, and fans. The excitement surrounding the main event, along with the stacked undercard, has made it difficult to predict the outcomes with certainty. However, based on previous performances, fighting styles, and other factors, here are some predictions:
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Lopes
- Prediction: Volkanovski by decision (Unanimous Decision)
- Reason: Volkanovski’s cardio, versatility, and fight IQ make him the favorite in this matchup. Although Lopes is a dangerous opponent with knockout power, Volkanovski has proven that he can dominate opponents across multiple rounds. His relentless pressure, wrestling, and striking should carry him to a victory.
Gilbert Burns vs. Vicente Luque
- Prediction: Burns by submission (Round 2)
- Reason: While Luque is a dangerous striker, Burns’ grappling and jiu-jitsu skills could be the deciding factor. Burns has been able to take down and control elite grapplers in the past, and his submission game is exceptional.
Islam Makhachev vs. Rafael dos Anjos
- Prediction: Makhachev by decision (Unanimous Decision)
- Reason: Makhachev’s wrestling and sambo background give him a significant advantage over the aging dos Anjos. Although dos Anjos is a seasoned veteran, Makhachev’s relentless pace and grappling should earn him a clear victory.
Brandon Moreno vs. Kai Kara-France
- Prediction: Moreno by submission (Round 3)
- Reason: Moreno is a submission specialist, and his grappling is world-class. Kara-France, while dangerous, might struggle against Moreno’s ability to control the fight and secure a submission victory in the later rounds.
| Fight | Predicted Winner | Prediction Method |
|---|---|---|
| Volkanovski vs. Lopes | Volkanovski | Unanimous Decision |
| Burns vs. Luque | Burns | Submission (Round 2) |
| Makhachev vs. dos Anjos | Makhachev | Unanimous Decision |
| Moreno vs. Kara-France | Moreno | Submission (Round 3) |
Conclusion
UFC 314 promises to be an exciting event, filled with explosive fights and high stakes. The main event between Alexander Volkanovski and Lopes will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched matchups in recent UFC history. With a stacked undercard, canceled fights, and thrilling predictions, UFC 314 is set to be a night to remember. Fans around the world will be on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each fight and hoping to see some of the best fighters in the world put on a show for the ages.