Two years ago, no one would have predicted that Ilia Topuria would be fighting for the UFC lightweight title against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. What once seemed like a distant dream or hype has now become reality. With Islam Makhachev vacating his title to pursue the welterweight belt and face Jack Della Maddalena, Dana White announced that Topuria and Oliveira will battle for the vacant title. Reacting to the news, Oliveira shared his immediate and emotional response to the moment.
Talking to MMA Today, Oliveira shared his excitement upon hearing about his upcoming lightweight title fight against Ilia Topuria at UFC 317. He described the moment as chaotic, with people yelling and his team celebrating the news. After seeing the announcement and receiving countless messages, Oliveira immediately contacted his coach, Diego, to begin preparations.
In addition, he expressed his determination to reclaim the belt, stating that it belonged where it should never have left. With 46 days left, Oliveira is fully focused and ready to give his all in the fight.
“Everyone started yelling, the kid screaming. I grabbed the phone, saw thousands of messages, and went straight to Diego [Charles’s coach]. Let’s go — 46 days for this belt to return where it should’ve never left. We’re more than ready and prepared for this fight. I’ll go all in, fulfill my promise, and get that belt,” he said.
Charles Oliveira Describes His Reaction to Receiving the News About the Lightweight Title Fight🙌🏆
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 14, 2025
"Everyone started yelling, the kid screaming. I grabbed the phone, saw thousands of messages, and went straight to Diego [Charles's coach]. Let's go — 46 days for this belt to… pic.twitter.com/C70qCnGjPm
Indeed, it will be interesting to see who claims the belt, as both fighters have been performing at their peak. Ilia and Oliveira are in top form, showcasing skill, confidence, and hunger for gold. With both men seemingly in their prime, fans can expect an all-out war, as each is ready to leave everything in the Octagon for championship glory.
Ilia Topuria Claims Islam Makhachev Is Avoiding Him, Fearing Defeat
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Topuria expressed strong confidence about a potential fight with Makhachev, stating that he believes Makhachev wouldn’t be able to handle his striking. He suggested that Makhachev would avoid engaging once he feels the power and has no interest in facing him because of the threat he poses. Topuria sees himself as a major challenge for the former champion and is convinced he would emerge victorious if the fight ever happens.
Meanwhile, Topuria vs. Makhachev is off the table, with both fighters heading in different directions. However, fans and analysts alike remain intrigued by the potential showdown. If their paths cross in the future, it could become one of the most exciting matchups in UFC history, pitting Topuria’s striking power against Makhachev’s dominant grappling.
Also Read: Ilia Topuria Calls Out UFC Champ Islam Makhachev With Intense Training Video
