Superstar Ilia Topuria saves UFC 317 with ‘title fight’; Charles Oliveira rumored as opponent

Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira might fight Ilia Topuria next at UFC 317 for at least an interim title.

Superstar Ilia Topuria saves UFC 317 with ‘title fight’; Charles Oliveira rumored as opponent

Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira share cryptic message for a potential battle at UFC 317 (via Imago)

As the biggest MMA promotion in the world, fans expect UFC to consistently deliver high-quality action and memorable PPVs. Unpredictable setbacks such as fighter injuries or weight issues can, unfortunately, lead to last-minute cancellations and weaken anticipated pay-per-view events. With UFC 317 facing potential turmoil, superstars Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria are stepping up to preserve excitement.

UFC 317 was originally scheduled to hold the middleweight title bout between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. However, DDP is now out due to an injury. Instead of searching for a replacement for Chimaev, it seems like the UFC has changed the main event altogether. Things got more interesting when Topuria made a post about starting his training camp for his next outing.

Following that, former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira shared a clip of him training and captioned it as ‘The Return.’ On top of that, there are rumors about the fight involving a title, which is yet to be disclosed. Previously, Oliveira had mentioned that he would only fight the Georgian-Spanish star if the lightweight title was on the line. 

This development can also be connected to the champion Islam Makhachev. After all, he is looking forward to UFC 315 by targeting Jack Della Maddalena. If JDM manages to beat Belal Muhammad, the Dagestan fighter will move up and Della Maddalena is also ready for that. However, there is also an opportunity for the winner of Topuria vs. Oliveira to potentially fight Makhachev. 

Ilia Topuria has size disadvantage in the UFC lightweight division?

Ilia Topuria rose quickly in the UFC with his undefeated record, showcasing slick striking and relentless pressure in every fight. He earned the featherweight title by brutally defeating Alexander Volkanovski and then defended it by knocking out Max Holloway. Topuria’s confident swagger and fearless attitude made him a standout, especially as he called out champions without hesitation.

Ilia Topuria's size disadvantages fighting Islam Makhachev
Ilia Topuria’s size disadvantages fighting Islam Makhachev (via MMA Fighting)

His ‘El Matador’ identity and electrifying style resonated with fans, making him a rising star and fan favorite across multiple countries. After vacating the featherweight belt, he moved up to challenge Islam Makhachev for the belt. However, many don’t think he has any chance, but UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen doesn’t think the same. 

There is no size difference between Ilia and Islam. It’s a 145 vs. a 155. Do 45-pounders and 55-pounders not know you weigh the same thing. Are you aware that Muhammad Ali, when he was the heavyweight champion of the world, weighed 198 pounds? Georges St-Pierre vs. Michael Bisping comes to mind. The lighter of the two: Georges St-Pierre, winner… I’m just blown away by the analysis that he would have no chance.

Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel 

Sonnen has also mentioned that Topuria has missed his leverage to fight Makhachev when he vacated his title. However, given the current volatile landscape of the division, anything is possible, and Topuria does have a massive opportunity. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see what will be the official announcement for UFC 317.

Can Ilia Topuria potentially beat Charles Oliveira at UFC 317?

Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira will be a highly technical fight, given that both fighters are extremely skilled. Topuria could potentially beat Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 if he uses his explosive striking and avoids dangerous grappling exchanges. Topuria’s knockout power, speed, and undefeated momentum make him a real threat, especially early in the fight. 

Ilia Topuria can knock out Charles Oliveira
Ilia Topuria can knock out Charles Oliveira (via X)

However, Oliveira’s elite jiu-jitsu, championship experience, and ability to survive adversity gives him dangerous comeback potential. If Topuria maintains distance and dictates the pace, he could score a finish. But if Oliveira drags him into deep waters or tires him, the tide could turn. It’s a true striker vs. submission specialist battle that depends on control and composure.

Related: Charles Oliveira Net Worth, UFC Contract, Endorsement and House