Oklahoma-trained UFC contender wins Freedom 250 featherweight bout at White House

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More than 4,000 people attended a series of UFC fights hosted Sunday at the White House, including President Donald Trump, White House officials and members of the armed services.

Among the winners was UFC featherweight contender Diego Lopes, who scored a knockout victory in the in the second round of the opening fight.

Lopes has strong ties to Oklahoma through his training connection with Oklahoma State University wrestling.

Diego Lopes earned a knockout victory on the South Lawn after preparing alongside Oklahoma State wrestlers in Stillwater

White House hosts UFC event

The fights took place on the White House South Lawn and drew thousands of spectators.

The crowd included members of the administration, military personnel and UFC athletes competing in front of a national audience.

Oklahoma connection runs deep

While competing on one of the sport’s biggest stages, Lopes continues to spend much of his training time in Stillwater.

Diego Lopes trains with Oklahoma State Wrestling program

Training with the Cowboys

Lopes regularly trains under Oklahoma State wrestling coach David Taylor and works with several Cowboy wrestlers as part of his preparation.

The sessions provide high-level wrestling experience and have become a key part of his training camp routine.