Ilia Topuria, the former UFC featherweight champion, is preparing for a major challenge at UFC 317. The Georgian-Spanish fighter vacated his featherweight title to move up and face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight belt, and he’s brimming with confidence. His words hint at a dominant performance in the upcoming fight.
Topuria shared his bold outlook in a promotional video.
“I represent the new generation of mixed martial arts,” Topuria said in a UFC 317 promotional video. “I’m the best fighter in the world… Now it’s time to become a lightweight world champion. I want to hold that belt too… I feel so powerful at 155, I’m gonna touch his chin and it will explode.” His prediction underscores his belief in a knockout victory.
The fight marks a significant step as Topuria transitions to lightweight. Many are curious to see how he performs in the new division, building anticipation for the big fight.
Ilia Topuria, born in 1997 in Georgia, moved to Spain as a child. He began training in martial arts, excelling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and striking. His professional MMA career started in 2015, and he joined UFC in 2020 with a perfect record.
He claimed the featherweight title in February 2024 by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298. A successful defense against Max Holloway at UFC 308 in October 2024 solidified his status. After vacating the title in 2025 to pursue lightweight, his record stands at 16-0, showcasing his ambition to dominate multiple divisions.
Topuria’s journey reflects discipline and skill. His background in multiple disciplines has shaped him into a versatile fighter, ready to test his limits at lightweight.
Oliveira’s Legacy and the Upcoming Challenge
Charles Oliveira, a Brazilian veteran, brings a wealth of experience to the octagon. Since joining UFC in 2010, he has compiled a record of 35-10, with a reputation for submission wins. He won the lightweight title in 2021 against Michael Chandler and defended it once before losing to Islam Makhachev in 2022.
Oliveira’s recent form includes a win over Michael Chandler in November 2024. His grappling prowess contrasts with Topuria’s striking, promising a tactical battle. The vacant title fight on June 28 offers Oliveira a chance to reclaim his crown.
Topuria’s confidence meets Oliveira’s resilience. The lightweight division awaits a new champion as both fighters prepare to showcase their skills in this highly anticipated matchup.
