Ilia Topuria is set to challenge Charles Oliveira in the UFC 317 main event for the lightweight championship, a bout that promises high stakes as both fighters vie for the vacant title. The fight takes place in Las Vegas, with the spotlight on Topuria’s attempt to secure two-division titles after Oliveira relinquished the featherweight belt earlier. This match holds particular significance because Islam Makhachev is vacating the lightweight championship to pursue another title, opening the door for these contenders to claim it.
Despite Oliveira’s credentials and experience, Topuria’s undefeated record and power have positioned him as a strong favorite, and he exudes confidence leading up to fight night. Oliveira, meanwhile, has maintained a firm belief in his ability to win, insisting he can defy expectations.
Topuria criticizes Oliveira’s promise to his children about winning the title
Before UFC 317, Charles Oliveira made a heartfelt promise to his son to reclaim a championship belt, following a similar vow he fulfilled for his daughter. This revelation came during the UFC 317 Embedded: Vlog Series, where Oliveira’s wife shared the personal side of his commitment. However, Ilia Topuria expressed reservations about such promises in a candid interview on the Kairouz Bros YouTube channel, highlighting the emotional risk involved.
Topuria explained that making championship promises to children can risk causing deep disappointment if the result does not go as hoped. He remarked,
“That’s why I don’t like to promise to my kids those kind of things,”
Topuria said.
“Now he’s gonna have to break his heart.”
This somber prediction underscores the intense pressures and emotional stakes involved for Oliveira’s family ahead of the fight.
Topuria remains focused beyond Oliveira, eyes future opponents
Showing no signs of doubt, Ilia Topuria continues to project strong confidence as UFC 317 approaches. He has dismissed any concerns about Oliveira’s advantages in size and experience, openly anticipating victory. The Spaniard has also looked beyond this fight, expressing interest in defending the title against other top contenders.
In a recent conversation with Eurosport Spain, Topuria named Justin Gaethje as a worthy challenger following UFC 317, indicating his desire to face high-caliber opponents. This statement came despite the complexity of UFC’s matchmaking decisions and Gaethje’s own hints at potential retirement if overlooked for a shot.
Topuria’s bold outlook highlights the tense atmosphere surrounding UFC 317 and the potential shakeup in the lightweight division, which could dramatically reshape future title contention.