Din Thomas believes that Alexander Volkanovski will have a challenging time at UFC 325. The decision to schedule Volkanovski (27-4 MMA, 14-3 UFC) in a rematch with Diego Lopes (27-7 MMA, 6-2 UFC) in the January 31 headliner at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney (Paramount+) is understandable to longtime UFC analyst Thomas, but only from the promotion's point of view. As far as the champion is concerned, it's a weak point. Thomas told MMA Junkie, "I believe Volk is in a no-win situation here." "If he wins, it's like, 'Hey, you just beat this guy last year and there's two other guys that deserved it more than he does,' so in a way, he's in a no-win situation." Lerone Murphy and Movsar Evloev, two unbeaten contenders who failed in their attempts to win the championship, are the other two players Thomas mentions. Rather, they were surpassed by Lopes, who at UFC 314 in April lost a vacant title fight to Volkanovski via unanimous decision. In September, Lopes overcame the setback to defeat Jean Silva via thrilling stoppage, but it was insufficient for many supporters who were incensed about the booking. According to Thomas, "I know who I know I think deserves a shot at the title: Lerone Murphy." "I think Lerone Murphy should have a chance to win the title. Although he has fulfilled all of the UFC's requests, Diego Lopes screams entertainment more than he does. You have to choose the person who will sell; it's just a matter of flipping a fight one week and another numbered event the following week. It's crucial for Paramount to start strong and attract more spectators, and in all honesty, this fight is better for the sport than Lerone Murphy's meritocracy because he deserves it." In the initial bout with Volkanovski, Lopes demonstrated his ability to injure the champion and provide him with competitive rounds. It's unclear how a rematch will unfold, but Thomas doesn't believe Volkanovski's already impressive record will gain much from a rematch. But at this point in his career, a loss would be devastating for the 37-year-old, Thomas said. Volkanovski has already hinted at his retirement in recent years, and if the rematch proceeds as Thomas anticipates, he wouldn't be surprised if "The Great" took the ring in his home country of Australia. Thomas remarked, "I think if he loses this might be it for him," "A Hall of Famer, he is. This could be the end for him if he loses, but if he wins, he will keep fighting until he loses. He will face the next opponent, whoever they are, if he prevails in this bout. But it's probably for nothing if he loses this. "I believe Diego succeeds this time. when you are already discussing retirement at the age of 37. A 34-year-old Volkanovski, in my opinion, defeats Diego Lopes 99 times out of 100. Volkanovski, 37, isn't as many, in my opinion. Diego wins him this time, I believe.