Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - THROWBACK: Best of Diego Lopes and Tatiana Suarez interviews ahead of Noche UFC Date: September 13, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode features throwback interviews with rising UFC stars Diego Lopes and Tatiana Suarez, recorded during fight week ahead of Noche UFC. The hosts, in a relaxed and conversational tone, dive into each fighter's journey, their mental approach, pivotal moments in their careers, and detailed strategies heading into high-stakes title bouts. These conversations present an intimate look at two contenders poised for greatness, sharing insights into their preparation, setbacks, and the pressure of title contention.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Diego Lopes Interview

(Starts at 02:49)

• Rapid Rise in the UFC

  • Diego Lopes reflects on his surprisingly fast ascension in the UFC, noting the speed from short-notice debut to a world title shot in just two years.
  • He emphasizes his wealth of experience: "I have 32 fights, bro. I work too much... I work it so long time one day. I know, I know. Imagine this is. I'm staying UFC is my ancestry in the...division." (03:34)

• Defeating Brian Ortega

  • Lopes discusses his dominant performance against Brian Ortega at Noche UFC, acknowledging the significance of beating a top-tier opponent: "Not too many people beat Ortegas the ways...I put in this fight." (04:34)

• Ortega Leaving the Division

  • When asked if he's disappointed Ortega moved weight classes, Lopes is unbothered: "No, I don't think so...my focus is in the title." (05:46)

• Focus on Volkanovski and the Championship

  • Lopes remains process-driven, keeping his sights strictly on the belt and top contenders: "I landed UFC my focus in the title this time...the champ is Volkanovski, my focus in the Volkanovski." (05:54)
  • Regarding Volkanovski's recent losses and current state: "Maybe now is different...I hope the best version. They have the Volkanovski." (06:40)

• Experience Gap and Preparation for Five Rounds

  • Hosts point out Volkanovski's seasoned main event experience versus Lopes' lack of five-round fights. Lopes is undeterred: "I prepared myself for the best...my goal is finish this fight." (07:43)

• Training with Oklahoma State

  • Lopes describes his training camp at Oklahoma State as "amazing," praising the people and environment. (08:32)
  • He notes the support from coach David, reflecting camaraderie and support. (08:50)

• Optimism and Excitement

  • Hosts encourage listeners to tune in, highlighting Lopes’ rapid ascent and excitement for his title shot.

Notable Quotes — Diego Lopes Interview

• “I work too much. I have 30, 30 years in my career for professional fight.” (03:34)
• “Not too many people beat Ortegas the ways...I put in this fight.” (04:34)
• “My focus is in the title...not the one component in space.” (05:54)
• “I trained for the finish the fight...my goal is finish this fight.” (07:43)
• “It’s amazing. The people in Oklahoma is so nice people...I’m so happy.” (08:32)

Tatiana Suarez Interview

(Starts at 14:31)

• Long Road Back to Title Contention

  • Suarez speaks candidly about her injury-plagued journey to the title shot and feeling relief and excitement to finally fight: “It feels amazing...everybody that knows me believes I’m the best in the world...so here I am. I’m super excited. It’s fight week, and I’m ready to go do my thing.” (15:11)

• Mindset Born from Wrestling

  • Drawing from her early and accomplished wrestling background, Suarez credits her resilience and mindset: “People always ask me, like, how do you get through the challenges? I’ve wrestled since I was three years old....it teaches you...it gives you a different mindset than anything.” (16:55)

• Training Approach After Injuries

  • Suarez details her cautious yet intense training regime, balancing smart preparation with her “workhorse” mentality: “I do lots of live...I also go live a lot...and I leave way after everybody else. I love to grapple, I love to spar. I love all of it. Like, I’m a workhorse.” (16:24)

• Getting the Title Shot

  • She explains the uncertainty and anticipation before getting her championship opportunity: “I was trying. I was calling for the fight...I felt like...I deserve that title shot, you know, So, I mean, I’m number one in the world. I’m undefeated.” (17:31)

• Watching the Division Move Without Her

  • On seeing multiple champions during her recovery: “Yeah, I mean, it is hard...But I’m not going to let that discourage me...I did everything that I needed to do to get back.” (19:23)
  • She recounts the repeated setbacks and mental challenge of rehabilitation: “I showed up every single day...I did all the exercises...then I hurt my knee, so then I had to do it again.” (19:23)

• Breaking Down Zhang Weili as a Champion

  • Suarez analyzes Weili: “She has a strong work ethic, just like myself...she has a good gas tank...she’s a very well rounded fighter, you know, but for me, I’m a finisher.” (21:13)

• Endurance, Criticism, and Championship Rounds

  • She responds to concerns about her stamina: “Actually in the Nina fight, I didn’t feel tired at all...my neck was, like, really hurting so bad...” (22:03)
  • On improving as rounds go on: “I actually get better as the time goes on. My coach did punch count...last round was the most punches you’ve had.” (23:39)

• Perspective on Spotlight and Championship Life

  • Suarez acknowledges potential life changes as champion: “Maybe that’s why my time wasn’t four years ago...my time now, because I wasn’t ready then, and now I am ready.” (24:58)

Notable Quotes — Tatiana Suarez Interview

• “Everybody that knows me believes I’m the best in the world...so here I am. I’m super excited.” (15:11)
• “Like, I’m a workhorse.” (16:24)
• “It gives you a different mindset than anything.” (16:55)
• “I did all the exercises I had to do...And then I hurt my knee, so then I had to do it again.” (19:23)
• “For me, I’m a finisher.” (21:31)
• “I actually get better as the time goes on.” (23:39)
• “Now I am ready. This is my time, and I look forward to proving that I’m the best in the world.” (24:58)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 02:49 — Diego Lopes interview begins

  • 03:34 — Lopes on his UFC journey and quick rise
  • 04:34 — Recap of the Ortega fight
  • 06:40 — Analyzing Volkanovski’s current status
  • 07:43 — Discussing experience gap and five-round preparation
  • 08:32 — Lopes on Oklahoma State training

• 14:31 — Tatiana Suarez interview begins

  • 15:11 — Suarez on finally reaching title contention
  • 16:24 — Training philosophy post-injury
  • 16:55 — Mental toughness from wrestling roots
  • 17:31 — Suarez describes securing the title fight
  • 19:23 — Battling through injury setbacks
  • 21:13 — Breakdown of Zhang Weili’s strengths
  • 23:39 — Addressing late-round performance
  • 24:58 — On readiness for championship spotlight

Tone and Style

The tone is friendly, conversational, and supportive, with hosts celebrating the fighters’ achievements while pressing them on strategy and mindset. Both Lopes and Suarez speak with humility, resilience, and an earnest desire to prove themselves at the highest level.

Memorable Moments

• Diego Lopes’ humility and drive: His repeated emphasis on hard work and a focus on finishing fights resonate throughout.
• Tatiana Suarez’s resilience: Her vivid recounting of injury rehab and mental challenges offer a compelling peek into what it takes to reach a title shot after years of setbacks.

Takeaway

This episode offers a compelling double feature of two UFC fighters on the cusp of glory—each with unique journeys defined by resilience, skill, and mental fortitude. It’s a must-listen for fans eager for a deeper understanding of what drives elite athletes during the most crucial moments of their careers.