The Americans' victory over the charismatic, teak-tough Englishman Pimblett was the perfect start for Paramount's deal with the UFC, which came into effect on January 1st and is worth a reported $7.7 billion (€8.8 billion) over seven years.

Two men who are at very different points in their careers, Illa Topuria awaits the winner while he takes time away from the sport.

The fight lived up to expectations, with both men staying composed on their feet despite a near-fight-changing sequence from Lopes (26-7 MMA) by dropping Volkanovski (27-4 MMA) in the final seconds of Round 2.

Tom Aspinall, Paddy Pimblett and Muhammad Mokaev are also on the card at the Co-op Live event.

Two title fights, the return of Paddy Pimblett, and one of the most dangerous fighters in the welterweight division awaits on Saturday in a card that should be full of entertainment.