Ilia Topuria is set to compete in the lightweight division once again at UFC 317 on June 28, where he will challenge Charles Oliveira for the vacant title. Previously competing as a featherweight, Topuria showed exceptional one-punch knockout power, which is rare for fighters at 145 pounds. His performance coach asserts that Topuria’s power will be significantly amplified in the lightweight category, making his knockout ability even more dangerous.
Topuria has fought at 155 pounds only once before, stepping in on short notice against Jai Herbert at UFC London in 2022. Despite facing a larger competitor, he delivered a devastating one-punch knockout, marking one of his most severe finishes to date.
Coach Predicts Unmatched Power at Lightweight
Jesus Gallo, Topuria’s performance coach, strongly believes that his fighter will maintain and even enhance his knockout capabilities at lightweight. In a recent discussion with Alvaro Colmenero, Gallo emphasized the extraordinary power Topuria possesses at 155 pounds:
“He’s going to have the most punching power at lightweight. I have no doubt about it. I don’t think there is anyone at that weight that has the power he has. So in respect of that, we’re not losing anything… Ilia, I believe will be the most powerful fighter at 155 pounds. I don’t have the slightest doubt.”
This confidence highlights the belief that Topuria’s striking strength is a serious threat to contenders in his new division.
Charles Oliveira Poised to Defend Title with Confidence
The upcoming UFC 317 showdown will pit former champions Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria against each other for the lightweight title. Oliveira aims to reclaim the belt he once held, while Topuria strives to become one of the few fighters to win world titles in two weight classes.
Topuria’s knockout skills have been proven time and again, notably when he became the first fighter to knock out Max Holloway at UFC 308. Oliveira, however, is no stranger to powerful knockouts himself. After his fight with Justin Gaethje at UFC 274, Gaethje described Oliveira as the hardest puncher he had ever faced.
Oliveira recently expressed his thoughts about the fight in an interview with Full Violence, confidently predicting the outcome:
“It’s a great fight, he’s a great fighter, but I don’t need to prove anything to anyone about who I am, what I’ve done in the fight business. This fight came at a huge opportunity. I will knock out this guy. That’s for real.”
His remarks underline the serious challenge Topuria will face in this contest for the lightweight crown.
What This Bout Means for the UFC Lightweight Landscape
The clash between Topuria and Oliveira has significant implications for the UFC lightweight division. If Topuria’s renowned knockout power translates effectively at 155 pounds, he could establish himself as one of the most formidable finishers in the division’s history. Meanwhile, Oliveira’s proven resilience and knockout capability set up a high-stakes battle between two dangerous strikers.
The winner of UFC 317 will not only claim the vacant title but also shape the future dynamics among lightweights, impacting title defenses and contender rankings for months to come.