In a dazzling display at UFC Noche 3, Diego Lopes secured a spectacular second-round TKO victory against Jean Silva, delivering a perfectly timed spinning back elbow that electrified fans in San Antonio. The fight not only brought Silva’s 13-fight winning streak to a dramatic halt but also reaffirmed Lopes’ status as a dangerous contender in the featherweight division following his previous title shot setback. Both fighters left the Octagon with Fight of the Night honours, proving just how thrilling this contest truly was.
A Thrilling Finish at UFC Noche 3
The atmosphere inside the Frost Bank Center was electric as a sold-out crowd of 18,005 fans watched the featherweight clash unfold. Coming off a tough decision loss to Alexander Volkanovski, Lopes was under pressure to remind everyone why he belongs at the top of the division — and he delivered in style.
With just 12 seconds remaining in the second round, Lopes unleashed a perfectly timed spinning back elbow that sent Silva crashing to the canvas. A flurry of ground strikes followed, forcing referee Mike Beltran to step in and wave off the contest. The finish has already been hailed as one of the highlights of the year and further cements Lopes’ reputation for delivering spectacular moments inside the Octagon.
This fight was everything we expected and more 😍
Diego Lopes 🆚 Jean Silva was all out action 🔥#NocheUFC | #UFCSanAntonio pic.twitter.com/yZHRt4EJAu
— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) September 14, 2025
Round-by-Round Breakdown
Round One: Lopes wasted no time asserting himself. He secured an early takedown, transitioned into full mount, and rained down heavy elbows and punches. Silva was bloodied and clearly under pressure as Lopes outstruck him 50 to 10 in the round, though Silva’s resilience shone through as he managed to battle back to his feet late on.
Round Two: Silva attempted to turn the tide, throwing flashy spinning attacks to try and put Lopes on the back foot. But as Silva pressed forward recklessly, Lopes seized the moment. His spinning back elbow landed flush, sealing a spectacular finish and silencing Silva’s momentum in an instant.
Post-Fight Reactions
After the fight, an emotional Lopes reflected on his journey: “I knew I had to bring my A-game tonight, and I did just that. I want to climb back up the rankings and earn another shot at the title.” For Lopes, this victory represents a huge step back toward featherweight contention.
“VIVA MEXICO!” 🇲🇽
Diego Lopes wants competition! 💪#NocheUFC | #UFCSanAntonio | LIVE on TNT Sports & discovery+ pic.twitter.com/Vd4l780Qzd
— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) September 14, 2025
For Silva, the loss marked his first setback since 2018 and the end of an impressive 13-fight winning streak. Despite the disappointment, Silva’s camp remained optimistic, emphasising the importance of regrouping and learning from the experience. Known for his aggressive style and finishing power, Silva will no doubt be hungry to bounce back.
Fight Night Bonuses and Significance
Both fighters took home Fight of the Night honours, while Lopes also pocketed a Performance of the Night bonus — a combined $100,000 boost to go alongside his statement win.
The event carried added cultural significance as UFC Noche 3 celebrated Mexican Independence Day weekend. Mexican and Mexican-adopted fighters went a perfect 6-0 on the card, making it a historic night for the nation’s MMA scene. For Lopes, who has trained extensively in Mexico and runs a gym in Puebla, the victory carried even greater meaning.
Key Details
- Fight Result: Diego Lopes defeated Jean Silva by TKO (Round 2) at UFC Noche 3.
- Event Date: September 14, 2025
- Location: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, Texas
- Attendance: 18,005 fans
- Gate Revenue: $3,586,669
- Fight Bonuses: Fight of the Night (both fighters), Performance of the Night (Lopes) — $100,000 total for Lopes
- Silva’s Streak: Ended a 13-fight winning run
FAQ
What was the result of Diego Lopes vs Jean Silva at UFC Noche 3?
Diego Lopes won via TKO in the second round, landing a devastating spinning back elbow followed by ground strikes.
How did Lopes control the fight early?
In round one, Lopes dominated with a takedown and full mount, unleashing elbows and punches that left Silva bloodied and behind on the scorecards.
What bonuses were awarded?
Both fighters earned Fight of the Night, while Lopes secured an additional Performance of the Night award, totalling $100,000 in bonuses.
Why was this fight significant?
It ended Silva’s 13-fight winning streak and marked Lopes’ resurgence as a title contender, all on a historic night for Mexican fighters celebrating Independence Day weekend.
