Wed Jun 25 03:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Ilia Topuria is moving up to lightweight to challenge Charles Oliveira for the vacant title at UFC 317. Topuria is confident in his ability to finish Oliveira in the first round, citing his striking skills and Oliveira’s tendency to engage. Topuria believes he is bringing a new level of skill to the sport. He is also open to moving up to welterweight in the future. He discussed a potential fight with Islam Makhachev and a possible grudge match with Paddy Pimblett. Topuria still hopes to have a UFC event in Spain.

**News Article:**

**Topuria Eyes Lightweight Gold, Predicts First-Round Finish of Oliveira at UFC 317**

Las Vegas, NV – Ilia “El Matador” Topuria is set to make his lightweight debut at UFC 317 this Saturday, challenging Charles Oliveira for the vacant title. The former featherweight champion is confident in his ability to add another title to his collection, boldly predicting a first-round finish of the Brazilian veteran.

“I’m going to finish him in the first round,” Topuria declared. “He walks forward – this is all I need.”

Topuria, known for his impressive striking and finishing ability, believes Oliveira’s aggressive style will play into his hands. He dismissed Oliveira’s experience and finishing record, claiming, “You never faced someone that skillful like me.”

The move to lightweight was prompted by the challenges of cutting weight to 145 pounds. Topuria also expressed interest in a future move to welterweight, stating, “If we have a fight, let’s fight. If you have 10 extra pounds, congratulations, but that’s not going to help you.”

A potential clash with former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is on hold, as Makhachev has also moved up to welterweight. Topuria also addressed a possible showdown with Paddy Pimblett, suggesting the Liverpudlian needs one more win before a title shot.

Despite his success, Topuria is still hoping for a UFC event in his home country of Spain, preferably in the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

“The dream is not over,” Topuria said. “They are trying to close a new deal, so maybe in that deal they are going to get some space to make an event in Europe in the prime time in Europe.”

UFC 317 takes place this Saturday and is headlined by the lightweight title fight between Topuria and Oliveira, promising an exciting night of action.

Read More