Ilia Topuria, the former UFC featherweight champion, is preparing for his lightweight title fight against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28, 2025, in Las Vegas. A recent video showing his strong new physique at 155 pounds has caused concern for Oliveira’s team, showing Topuria is ready to fight for the vacant lightweight title.
Topuria’s UFC Journey and Lightweight Move
Ilia Topuria joined the UFC in 2020 with an undefeated 8-0 record. Born in Georgia and raised in Spain, he quickly climbed the featherweight ranks, earning a 16-0 record. His notable victories include knockouts over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024 and Max Holloway at UFC 308 in October 2024, securing and defending the featherweight title.
In February 2025, Topuria vacated his featherweight belt to chase the lightweight title, citing difficult weight cuts. He previously fought at lightweight once, stopping Jai Herbert in 2022 at UFC London on short notice. Now, with ample preparation time, Topuria’s new physique signals his full adaptation to the 155-pound division.
On May 24, 2025, a video posted on social media showed Topuria’s lightweight physique and reflex training, revealing a stronger and sharper build compared to his featherweight days. The footage has caused concern among Oliveira’s supporters due to Topuria’s evident power and speed. His preparation for UFC 317 suggests a fighter ready to dominate.
Topuria expressed confidence in a May 13, 2025, social media post, stating, “On June 28, another dream will come true. I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away.” The post underscores his belief in winning the title and frustration over not facing former champion Islam Makhachev.
Charles Oliveira, a Brazilian veteran with a 35-10 record, is a former lightweight champion known for his record-setting 20 UFC finishes. He won the vacant lightweight title in 2021 by stopping Michael Chandler at UFC 262 and defended it against Dustin Poirier. After missing weight for a 2022 fight against Justin Gaethje, he was stripped of the title but won by submission.
Oliveira lost to Makhachev in a 2022 title fight but bounced back with victories over Beneil Dariush and Michael Chandler, though he fell to Arman Tsarukyan in 2024. Now, he faces Topuria as a significant underdog, with betting odds listing Topuria as a -400 favorite, implying an 80 percent chance of victory.
The UFC 317 main event at T-Mobile Arena, part of International Fight Week, pits Topuria’s knockout power against Oliveira’s elite grappling and striking. Topuria aims to become a two-division champion in his ninth UFC fight, a rare achievement. Oliveira seeks to reclaim the lightweight title and solidify his legacy.
The co-main event features flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defending against Kai Kara-France, adding to the card’s appeal. Topuria’s recent video has heightened anticipation, with his physical transformation signaling a tough challenge for Oliveira.
