UFC 314: Volkanovski vs. Lopes – Full Fight Card, U.S. Start Times, and Where to Watch
UFC 314 is almost here, and fight fans across the United States are preparing for an action-packed night. Set to take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, this event features a stacked card with title implications and fan-favorite fighters.
In the main event, former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski returns to face rising Brazilian star Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight belt. The co-main event sees lightweight legend Michael Chandler take on the undefeated Paddy Pimblett in a bout full of intrigue and stakes.
Featherweight gold is on the line as Volkanovski returns. Don’t miss these explosive matchups.
Event Details – U.S. Start Times
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Location: Kaseya Center, Miami, Florida
• Early Prelims: 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT (Streaming on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass)
• Preliminary Card: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT (Aired on ESPN and ESPN+)
• Main Card: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT (Available on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View)
Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes (Featherweight Title Bout)
Alexander Volkanovski (26-4)
Volkanovski returns after back-to-back losses, including a knockout defeat to Ilia Topuria in February 2024. After taking time off to recover, re-focus, and adjust his training, Volkanovski is aiming to reclaim his position atop the featherweight division. Known for his durability, adaptability, and cardio, he brings a wealth of experience into the Octagon.
Diego Lopes (22-5)
Diego Lopes has surged up the UFC rankings with explosive finishes and high-paced fights. With a mix of powerful striking and slick submissions, the Brazilian is on a hot streak and ready for his biggest challenge yet. A win over Volkanovski would cement his status as the new face of the division.
“I’ve made the changes I needed. I’m coming back smarter, stronger, and hungrier.”
Co-Main Event: Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett (Lightweight)
Michael Chandler (23-9)
Since joining the UFC from Bellator, Chandler has delivered all-action fights every time out. Despite losing four of his last five bouts, he remains dangerous and determined to bounce back. This is a must-win if he wants to stay in the lightweight title picture.
Paddy Pimblett (21-3)
Unbeaten in the UFC, Pimblett has become a star thanks to his colorful personality and aggressive fighting style. Though some question the level of his previous opponents, a win over a proven name like Chandler would silence critics and push him toward the top 10.
“People underestimate me, but I always show up when it counts.”
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Fights to Watch on UFC 314
Yair Rodríguez vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (Featherweight)
Rodríguez (18-5) is a former interim champ known for unorthodox striking and dynamic kicks. Freire (35-7), a Bellator legend and two-division champion, makes his UFC debut in one of the most highly anticipated cross-promotional bouts in years.
Bryce Mitchell vs. Jean Silva (Featherweight)
Mitchell (17-3) is a grappling specialist who thrives on the ground. Silva (15-2) is riding a 12-fight win streak and has shown knockout power and confidence. Their pre-fight trash talk and psychological mind games have added even more hype.
Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates (Welterweight)
Neal (15-6) is a heavy-handed striker who’s fought the division’s elite. Prates (19-6) is undefeated in his last 11 fights and looks to break into the welterweight rankings with a big win.
Full Fight Card for UFC 314 (Subject to Change)
Main Card – 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT (ESPN+ PPV)
• Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes – Featherweight Title Fight
• Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett – Lightweight
• Bryce Mitchell vs. Jean Silva – Featherweight
• Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates – Welterweight
• Yair Rodríguez vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire – Featherweight
Preliminary Card – 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT (ESPN / ESPN+)
• Nikita Krylov vs. Dominick Reyes – Light Heavyweight
• Dan Ige vs. Sean Woodson – Featherweight
• Yan Xiaonan vs. Virna Jandiroba – Women’s Strawweight
• Jim Miller vs. Chase Hooper – Lightweight
Early Prelims – 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
• Sedriques Dumas vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk – Middleweight
• Darren Elkins vs. Julian Erosa – Featherweight
• Su Mudaerji vs. Mitch Raposo – Flyweight
• Alberto Montes vs. Roberto Romero – Featherweight
• Tresean Gore vs. Marco Tulio – Middleweight
• Nora Cornolle vs. Hailey Cowan – Women’s Bantamweight
What’s Next for the Featherweight Division?
With Ilia Topuria vacating the title to move up to lightweight, the 145-pound division is wide open. Volkanovski seeks redemption, while Lopes could become the new face of the future. Fighters like Max Holloway, Movsar Evloev, and Arnold Allen will be watching closely.
Final Thoughts
UFC 314 has everything: title implications, rising stars, and legacy on the line. Whether you’re tuning in for Volkanovski’s return, Pimblett’s biggest test, or just a night of elite MMA, this card delivers.
Don’t miss it – live on ESPN+ PPV Saturday night 12 april.
