Ilia Topuria has asserted that Charles Oliveira will face overwhelming damage in their upcoming UFC 317 fight on June 28. The matchup, set for the vacant lightweight title, marks Topuria’s chance to become a two-division champion by claiming the 155-pound belt after his featherweight reign.
Having secured and defended the featherweight title through impressive knockouts of Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, Topuria is poised to extend his dominance as he returns to lightweight for this crucial bout. He believes Oliveira’s history of knockdowns in the UFC signals a quick end to the contest.
Topuria outlines precise strategy to defeat Oliveira
In an interview with Simon Head for UFC.com, Topuria elaborated on his expectations for the fight against Oliveira during International Fight Week. The Spanish fighter expressed unwavering self-assurance about his performance.
From the first second, he’s going to feel the speed and the power,
Topuria said, referring to Oliveira.
He’s going to start to look for the takedowns and for the ground game. But I think that it’s going to be very, very quick, because I’m going to finish him in the first two or three minutes.
—Ilia Topuria
Topuria added respect for Oliveira’s achievements and character but emphasized his competitive intensity.
He has done amazing things in the sport. I respect him as a sportsman. As a human being, he seems to be a nice guy. But we are going to fight. And when we are competing with each other, I go all in. Just be careful!
—Ilia Topuria
He then gave a clear, simple prediction for how the fight will conclude.
Jab, jab, one-two, and it’s over!
—Ilia Topuria
Topuria’s undefeated streak highlights immense power and skill
Oliveira faces a daunting task, as Topuria’s power and precision have overwhelmed nearly every opponent in his UFC tenure. Only Youssef Zalal and Josh Emmett have managed to take him the distance, though Emmett was decisively beaten across five rounds.
Two of Topuria’s most memorable knockouts occurred last year, when he stopped both Volkanovski and Holloway, two of the sport’s all-time greats, showcasing his rising dominance.
Now, Topuria aims to add Oliveira to his list of defeated champions and prevent the Brazilian from reclaiming the lightweight throne in this pivotal contest.
The significance of UFC 317’s lightweight title clash
The upcoming fight carries immense weight for both fighters and the wider UFC landscape. Topuria’s victory would make him a rare two-division champion and intensify his status as one of MMA’s elite. For Oliveira, the chance to regain the lightweight title represents a crucial comeback opportunity in his career.
Fans can expect a high-stakes battle that could shape the future of the UFC’s lightweight division, with Topuria’s confidence and past performances suggesting a fight-ending display of power early in the match.