Charles Oliveira addressed Ilia Topuria‘s recent bold statements as they prepare to face off for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317. Set for June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, the match is part of this year’s International Fight Week and has drawn attention due to both fighters’ confidence and skills.

Oliveira Confident Despite Topuria’s Intimidation Tactics

Oliveira showed strong confidence in his abilities, unfazed by Topuria’s attempts to intimidate him with threats of knockout power. The Spanish contender shared a stern message on social media, signaling his readiness for the fight. However, Oliveira focused on his own experience and resilience, emphasizing that talk does not affect his mindset.

In an interview with Luis Coutinho, Oliveira said,

“Dude, you know it doesn’t matter what they’re going to say. For me, it doesn’t matter bro. I think only god knows what will happen on June 28th, we’re going to face each other. I think I’m a problem for him or anyone who’s going to fight me. I’ve got firepower in my hands and incredible jiu-jitsu. What Topuria is saying or any other guy is saying, to me, it doesn’t make a difference. You’ve seen this soap opera several times. Many of them said a lot of things, and you know what happened in the end. My hand was raised, so it doesn’t make any difference.”

Oliveira’s remarks underline his belief that past rhetoric has failed to alter outcomes, as he has continually overcome strong opponents to emerge victorious.

Michael Bisping Raises Concerns Over Oliveira’s Aggressive Style

Former UFC champion Michael Bisping weighed in on Oliveira’s chances ahead of UFC 317, offering praise while also highlighting potential vulnerabilities. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Bisping pointed out Oliveira’s aggressive, come-forward approach as both exciting and risky, warning that such a style leaves openings for counterattacks from powerful adversaries like Topuria.

Bisping noted Oliveira’s history of being knocked down by fighters such as Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje, which raises questions about his defensive tactics in the cage.

“Charles ‘Do Bronx’ Oliveira is an exciting fighter…but it’s the exciting style that he has that will give me cause for concern if I was coaching Charles ‘Do Bronx’ Oliveira. The way that he walks forward like a buzzsaw with reckless abandon, the not giving a damn attitude…it’s that reckless style that might get him clipped…he takes a lot of chances…we know he’s [Ilia Topuria] got big power. He might explode the chin of Charles Oliveira.”

Bisping’s assessment highlights the tension between Oliveira’s dynamic offense and the potential risk Topuria’s knockout power presents during their UFC 317 title fight.

The Stakes of UFC 317 at International Fight Week

The matchup between Oliveira and Topuria is not only about winning the lightweight championship but also about legacy and respect within the sport. Taking place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, UFC 317 during International Fight Week gathers considerable attention, with fans eager to see if Oliveira can maintain his winning momentum or if Topuria will claim the vacant belt through knockout dominance.

With Oliveira’s championship experience and jiu-jitsu skills pitted against Topuria’s confident striking and power, this fight carries significant implications for the lightweight division’s future.