Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira: Is This the Most Anticipated Fight of 2025?

By Ali Hammad June 12, 2025 09:37

The upcoming UFC 317 event on June 28, 2025, promises to deliver one of the most electrifying matchups of the year as Ilia Topuria faces off against Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. Set against the backdrop of UFC International Fight Week at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this fight has quickly become the most anticipated bout of 2025, pitting two of the sport’s most dynamic finishers against each other in a battle for championship glory.

Ilia Topuria, the undefeated Georgian-Spanish phenom, enters the fight with an impeccable 16-0 professional record and a meteoric rise through the UFC ranks. Formerly the featherweight champion, Topuria vacated his title earlier this year to move up to lightweight, aiming to become only the tenth fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two divisions. His 2024 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, earning him CBS Sports’ Fighter of the Year honors after back-to-back wins over all-time great featherweights Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Ranked No. 3 in the men’s pound-for-pound standings, Topuria boasts a blend of explosive striking power and grappling prowess, making him a formidable threat in any phase of the fight.

On the other side stands Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira, a former lightweight champion known for his aggressive style and submission mastery. Oliveira’s record of 35-10 in MMA, including 23-10 in the UFC, reflects his extensive experience at the highest level. Despite being the underdog in the betting odds Topuria is favored at -395 while Oliveira comes in at +310 Oliveira remains undeterred. In a recent interview, he confidently declared, “I will knock out this guy. That’s a certainty.” Oliveira’s belief in his striking power and championship pedigree underscores the high stakes of this contest.

The vacant lightweight title itself adds an extra layer of intrigue. Islam Makhachev, the reigning champion, vacated the belt to pursue a welterweight title run, leaving the division wide open. The winner of Topuria vs. Oliveira will not only claim the belt but also cement their legacy in what is widely regarded as the toughest weight class in the UFC. The lightweight division’s depth and talent make this matchup a true litmus test for both fighters’ championship credentials.

Analysts and fans alike are captivated by the contrasting styles. Topuria’s undefeated record and recent dominance suggest a rising star ready to take the sport by storm, while Oliveira’s veteran savvy and finishing ability offer a compelling counterpoint. The fight is expected to be a showcase of striking exchanges, grappling transitions, and high-level strategy, with both fighters eager to leave no doubt about their supremacy.

The UFC 317 card is stacked, with flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defending his title against Kai Kara-France in the co-main event, but all eyes will be on the lightweight championship bout. The event also features notable matchups such as Renato Moicano vs. Beneil Dariush and Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov, adding depth to an already star-studded fight night.

In summary, Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira stands as the most anticipated fight of 2025 for good reason. It is a clash of youth versus experience, undefeated ambition against seasoned resilience, all for the coveted UFC lightweight championship. With both fighters bringing their best weapons to the cage, fans can expect a thrilling contest that could define the lightweight division’s landscape for years to come. The countdown to June 28 is on, and MMA enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a classic showdown.