Former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez is unhappy that Diego Lopes is gaining support from two nations.
Yair Rodriguez and Diego Lopes, both prominent featherweights in the UFC, are scheduled to compete at UFC 314 this Saturday. Rodriguez will face UFC newcomer Patricio ‘Pitbull’, while Lopes will headline his first UFC event against Alexander Volkanovski for the vacant featherweight title.
Rodriguez and Lopes share similarities in their UFC journeys, both celebrating Mexican heritage and culture. Lopes trains in Guadalajara, while Rodriguez trains in the United States.
Lopes, born in Brazil, is considered a major Mexican star despite his Brazilian origin. Rodriguez is bothered by this, believing Lopes is creating a false narrative.
Yair Rodriguez questions Diego Lopes’s support from Mexican fans ahead of UFC 314
Rodriguez’s ascent to interim champion, marked by highlight knockouts and significant moments, has been under the Mexican flag. Since his UFC debut in 2014, Rodriguez has been a leading Mexican talent in the UFC, contributing to MMA`s growth in Mexico.
After years of representing Mexico, Rodriguez is frustrated that Lopes is seen as a Mexican UFC star.
During a UFC 314 media day press conference, Rodriguez explained his discomfort with Lopes`s connection to Mexican culture.
“Yes, I have a problem with that, not with Diego,” Rodriguez stated. “He’s just doing his job, but my issue is with the people. I understand he’s great and exciting, but I don’t agree with it. I will never act that way. If he is, good for him. If people see him as Mexican, I don’t mind.
“I’ve dedicated years to my country. If they choose to support him, and we have to fight, that’s their choice. I`ve always represented my country.”
“I have bled, cried, and embraced the flag for my country. I am extremely proud to be Mexican.”
As of now, Lopes has not responded to Rodriguez’s comments. They were previously rumored to fight, but a match did not happen.
Diego Lopes Enjoyed Junk Food Before UFC 314 Headliner
Leading up to UFC 314, Lopes is enjoying the fight week atmosphere. He shared pizza with his team days before UFC 314, which drew reactions from fans online.
Lopes’s dietary choices before UFC 314 might reflect confidence for the Volkanovski fight, especially after wins against Brian Ortega and Dan Ige.
Lopes debuted in the UFC against Movsar Evloev at UFC 288 on short notice and nearly defeated him. A rematch with Evloev is possible after UFC 314, as he has suggested.
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley