Movsar Evloev needed a quick replacement after Bryce Mitchell pulled out of the UFC 288 fight just days before the pay-per-view. However, Dana White found quickly set up the Russian fighter against newcomer Diego Lopes. It was the latter’s debut fight in the promotion. Lopes failed to earn a victory, but Dana White decided to reward him for accepting to fight on short notice. Fans have reacted to the UFC president’s generous act on social media.

Dana White’s Contender Series has seen some great fighters, such as Bo Nickal, light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill, and now Diego Lopes. He put up a great fight against the 10th-ranked Evloev and lasted the entire three rounds, losing only via a unanimous decision, in an event that saw a returning Henry Cejudo lose to Aljamain Sterling in the main event via a split decision.

Dana White rewards Diego Lopes with double pay and a bonus

Diego Lopes might have lost the match, but he took home his fight money. He was caught having a conversation with White, a moment which was captured by ESPN. The UFC president had a translator by his side as he told Lopes how good and impressive he looked in the fight. The UFC boss was also heard promising the newcomer to double his fight purse.

Dana White later made an appearance at the post-fight press conference and spilled his thoughts about the Brazilian-born fighter. The 53-year-old promoter revealed that, in addition to doubling his fight pay, Lopes will also receive a ‘Fight of the Night’ bonus for his performance.

Fans react to the UFC president’s generous act

Let us take a look at what fans had to say on social media.

A couple of fans noticed the moment when Dana White extended a handshake, but Diego Lopes didn’t see that. He left the boss hanging, and the fans made a light-hearted joke that White may have backtracked with his decision to pay the newcomer.

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But there were a lot of fans who claim that the former DWCS fighter deserved to get paid for his amazing performance.

Another fan believes that Lopes may become a fan favorite very soon.

A Twitter user lauded Dana White for his generous act and encouraged others to see the good side of the UFC president.

Some people claim that Dana White has taken a liking to Diego Lopes and he may get fast-tracked in the division.

Many fans believe that Diego Lopes will have a great career in the UFC and lauded his fighting skills.

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Having earned a full camp, Lopes will be facing an easier opponent next time. As for Evloev, he cemented his position as a top featherweight contender and impressed Dana White. It remains to be seen how the future unfolds for both of them.

What are your thoughts? Drop your comments below.

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