The UFC returns with one of its most anticipated events of the year, UFC 317 International Fight Week, featuring a 12-fight card highlighted by two championship bouts. Following Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight title, former champions prepare to clash for the prestigious 155-pound belt. Among the standout fighters at the event is former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, who will face Charles Oliveira in a highly anticipated showdown.
Ilia Topuria’s UFC 317 walkout song plays a significant role in his pre-fight ritual, symbolizing his deep connection to his heritage and mindset. This walkout music sets the tone for what promises to be a compelling contest, reflecting both his personality and spirit.
Music Choices Behind Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira’s Walkouts
Though Ilia Topuria proudly embraces his Georgian roots, he often highlights his affinity for Spain during his fight entrances. In his most recent appearance at UFC 308, where he battled Max Holloway, Topuria walked out to the iconic Spanish-language track “Cancion Del Mariachi.” This song, originally made famous by the 1990s action film Desperado, features vocals by Antonio Banderas alongside the band Los Lobos. The powerful and fiery energy of this tune perfectly matched Topuria’s aggressive fighting style and charismatic presence.
On the other hand, Charles Oliveira, known as ‘Do Bronx,’ frequently uses his walkout music to convey his strong Christian faith. At UFC 309, Oliveira entered the arena to “O Hino” by Fernandinho, a revered Christian rock ballad. The crowd joined in singing, creating a moving and reverent atmosphere as he prepared to engage his opponents, embodying both determination and grace.
Other Notable Walkout Songs at UFC 317
Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja, aiming for his fourth consecutive title defense, also lets his walkout song reflect his fierce reputation. Nicknamed ‘The Cannibal,’ Pantoja’s entrance music at UFC 310 was 50 Cent’s “Many Men (Wish Death)” from the groundbreaking album Get Rich or Die Tryin’. This track’s gritty tone matches his relentless fighting approach.
Kai Kara-France, the Kiwi knockout artist and Pantoja’s opponent in the co-main event, embraces his cultural roots with the rap song “Maori Ki Te Ao” by Stan Walker. Although the song exhibits a laid-back, tropical vibe, its lyrics and visuals emphasize the strength and resilience of the Maori people—a fitting tribute for the New Zealand fighter’s walk to the octagon.
In addition to these headline bouts, several other fighters bring unique musical selections to UFC 317. Brandon Royval, ranked No. 1 in the flyweight division, last walked out to a blend of Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” and Vicente Fernandez’s “El Rey” during a main event Fight Night against Tatsuro Taira.
Joshua Van, known as the Burmese-American slugger, has displayed remarkable activity, entering his UFC 317 bout just over two weeks after his prior fight at UFC 316. Van’s entrance music for his recent fights includes Chief Keef’s “I Don’t Know Dem.” UFC 317 marks Van’s third fight this year, highlighting his intense schedule within the promotion.
Other Fighters’ Walkout Music at UFC 317
Beneil Dariush, competing against Renato Moicano, has chosen Lauren Daigle’s “Still Rolling Stones” as his motivating anthem, a soulful choice matching his reflective nature inside the cage.
Renato Moicano has used Tupac Shakur’s classic “All Eyes on Me” to energize his entrances, most notably during his fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 earlier this year, underscoring his confident and focused mindset.
Payton Talbott, preparing to face Felipe Lima, walked out to “Kerosene” by Crystal Castles in his previous bouts, further illustrating the diversity of musical styles represented among UFC fighters.
Significance of Walkout Songs for Fighters at UFC 317
As noted by legendary journalist Hunter S. Thompson:
A car with the gas needle on empty can run about fifty more miles if you have the right music very loud on the rario
—Hunter S. Thompson. This highlights how athletes, including UFC fighters, often rely on music to fuel their mental preparation and energy before stepping into the cage.
Ilia Topuria’s selection of “Cancion Del Mariachi” as his walkout song symbolizes more than just a musical choice; it reflects his identity and the passion he brings to every fight. As UFC 317 advances, the emotional and psychological boost provided by these walkout songs could be a crucial factor influencing fighter performance and fan connection.
With UFC 317 drawing near, fans can anticipate an electrifying atmosphere energized not only by world-class combatants but also by the carefully chosen tracks that accompany each fighter’s journey to the octagon. These songs serve as an audio backdrop to some of the most significant match-ups of the year, enhancing the drama and intensity of the event.