Topuria to Clash with Oliveira at UFC 317 for Lightweight Title

Ilia Topuria, a prominent figure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight division, had previously expressed his desire to fight Paddy Pimblett, citing personal animosity.

As he transitions to the 155-pound weight class, Topuria is poised to embark on a fresh chapter in his UFC career. Following a brief but impactful reign as featherweight champion, the 28-year-old is rapidly advancing towards the lightweight division.

Having relinquished his featherweight title after claiming it from Alexander Volkanovski, Topuria remains undefeated in that division with an impressive 8-0 record. He has now been granted a title opportunity in the lightweight division against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317.

This chance arose after Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate his belt in pursuit of the welterweight division.

While currently focused on his upcoming fight against Oliveira at UFC 317, Topuria also has his sights set on a potential future bout against Pimblett in the 155-pound category.

Topuria has labeled Pimblett a ‘hypocrite,’ reiterating his preference to fight him if given the choice.

“He’s a hypocrite. I recall a press conference where he remarked something along the lines of, ‘I’m on the main card while you’re on the prelims,”, Topuria stated.

“Now I’m thinking, I have two belts, where are you? Who is Paddy Pimblett right now? And why would he deserve to fight me?

“Frankly, if I had the option, I would choose to fight him because of my dislike for him. I would relish the opportunity to provide that fight to the fans. In my opinion, the UFC hasn’t witnessed a genuine grudge match in quite some time – two individuals genuinely eager to fight each other. And what better setting than to fight in front of everyone and deliver a spectacular show?”

Topuria is scheduled to face Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28 for the vacant lightweight title.