Ilia Topuria is set to challenge Charles Oliveira for lightweight supremacy at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas, aiming to become a two-division UFC champion. After a dominant run at featherweight, where he notably knocked out both Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, Topuria has moved up from 145 pounds to lightweight, creating significant buzz around this matchup. The Spaniard’s ambition and recent success have made him the heavy favorite in the betting markets for what will be one of International Fight Week’s headline bouts.

Despite Topuria’s favored status, the contest has sparked debate within the UFC community, particularly because Oliveira brings his own experience as a former lightweight champion, adding intrigue to this highly anticipated fight night at the T-Mobile Arena.

UFC Analyst Laura Sanko Questions Betting Odds Favoring Topuria

UFC color commentator Laura Sanko voiced surprise at how strongly favored Ilia Topuria has become over Charles Oliveira in the lead-up to UFC 317, during her analysis on the One On One YouTube channel alongside Din Thomas. Sanko highlighted Oliveira’s physical advantages, pointing to his length and size in the lightweight division as potential keys to turning this fight in his favor.

She reflected on Oliveira’s past victories over fighters such as Bryce Mitchell and Jai Herbert, emphasizing the tactical openings “Do Bronx” could exploit. Although Sanko personally favors Topuria, she finds the odds heavily skewed and believes Oliveira’s chances are underestimated by oddsmakers.

Should Charles Oliveira actually be favored in this fight? I do think (size) is going to be a factor in this fight because of the length of Charles Oliveira. Ilia Topuria, I looked and he is a -410 favorite. Charles Oliveira is a +320 dog. Listen, I must be crazy…I have so much to say about how I think Charles can get the better of Ilia.

— Laura Sanko, UFC Color Commentator

She added, reflecting on Topuria’s vulnerabilities against wrestlers like Mitchell:

Like the Bryce Mitchell fight. Bryce takes him down and Bryce got some good shots on him on the feet. I was watching and I was like, ‘You know, if this was Charles Oliveira, I think he (Topuria) would be in some big trouble here.’

— Laura Sanko, UFC Color Commentator

Sanko’s perspective suggests that although Topuria has been dominant at featherweight, Oliveira’s size and versatility could create significant challenges in the lightweight division, setting up a compelling contest.

Ilia Topuria’s Confidence Builds Ahead of UFC 317 Clash

Ilia Topuria appears unfazed by the debate and odds, expressing strong confidence as he prepares for his lightweight debut against Oliveira. Having delivered knockout wins over established champions, Topuria believes his power will carry over effectively to the higher weight class.

In a promotional video leading up to the fight, Topuria made a striking prediction about his performance, signaling his intent to assert dominance quickly inside the Octagon.

I feel so powerful at 155,

he said.

I’m gonna touch his chin and it will explode.

This bold statement reflects Topuria’s belief in his ability to overwhelm Oliveira and secure a quick finish, adding to the high stakes of UFC 317, which features two championship bouts during International Fight Week in Las Vegas.

Looking Ahead: UFC 317’s Title Fights to Cap International Fight Week

UFC 317 will be a landmark event, concluding International Fight Week with two major title fights in Las Vegas. Besides the lightweight showdown between Topuria and Oliveira, the card features Alexandre Pantoja defending his flyweight title against Kai Kara-France. Both matchups promise intense competition and the possibility of history-making moments, especially with Topuria aiming to join the exclusive group of fighters to hold belts in two divisions.

Charles Oliveira’s experience and skill set make him a formidable challenger, despite the odds, and UFC observers will watch closely to see if he can defy expectations. This fight could reshape perceptions in the lightweight division and influence future championship pursuits.