Diego Lopes Looks Beyond Yair Rodriguez, Eyes “Big Fight” for Next UFC Matchup

The UFC’s featherweight division just got a whole lot more interesting. Rising star Diego Lopes made waves at Fanatics Fest in New York this weekend when he revealed his ambitious plans for his next octagon appearance—and it’s not necessarily against the opponent many fans expected.

While speaking with MMA Fighting on Saturday, Lopes made it clear: he wants a marquee matchup, but Yair Rodriguez isn’t the only name on his radar.

Lopes Wants a “Statement” Fight After Recent Success

I’ve been following Lopes’ career closely, and let me tell you—this guy is the real deal. After bursting onto the UFC scene as a short-notice replacement against Movsar Evloev (where he impressed despite losing a decision), Lopes has been on an absolute tear, collecting three straight victories and establishing himself as a legitimate contender.

“I want someone who will push me to the next level,” Lopes told reporters at the event. “A big name that puts me directly in the title conversation with a win.”

When pressed about Yair Rodriguez, who many assumed would be his next logical opponent, Lopes was respectful but noncommittal: “Yair is an amazing fighter, one of the best in the division. If that’s the fight UFC wants, I’m ready. But I’m open to other challenges that make sense for my career.”

Who Else Could Be on Lopes’ Hit List?

Reading between the lines, it seems Lopes has his sights set on potentially bigger fish. Here are the likely candidates he might be targeting:

The Timing Factor

What makes Lopes’ position particularly interesting is the timing. The featherweight division is in flux with champion Ilia Topuria likely facing Max Holloway next, while Alexander Volkanovski regroups after consecutive losses.

“The division is wide open right now,” Lopes explained. “With one or two more big wins, I could be fighting for gold. That’s why I need to be strategic about who I face next.”

You can sense the calculated ambition in Lopes’ approach. This isn’t a fighter rushing blindly toward a title shot—he’s mapping his path carefully.

Fan Reaction: Mixed But Mostly Positive

UFC fans seem divided on Lopes’ stance. Some respect his strategic approach to climbing the rankings, while others want to see him tested against Rodriguez specifically.

One thing nobody can deny? The Brazilian has earned the right to have a say in his career trajectory after his recent performances, particularly his highlight-reel submission win over Sodiq Yusuff that sent shockwaves through the division.

What’s Next for the Brazilian Standout?

While no official announcement has been made, UFC matchmakers are likely scrambling to find the perfect next step for one of their fastest-rising stars. Whether it’s Rodriguez or another top-10 opponent, expect news in the coming weeks.

The smart money says we’ll see Lopes back in the octagon before the end of the year, possibly on one of the major PPV cards in November or December.

As a longtime MMA observer, I can tell you this much: regardless of who stands across from him next time, Diego Lopes has all the tools to continue his ascension. His grappling is elite, his striking is improving with each fight, and most importantly, he has that killer instinct that separates contenders from pretenders.

Who Would You Like to See Lopes Fight Next?

Do you think Yair Rodriguez is still the fight to make? Or should the UFC match Lopes with another featherweight contender? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: MMA Fighting