Ilia Topuria Mocks Islam Makhachev, Vows To Chase Lightweight Gold At UFC 317 In Bold New Claim

Islam Makhachev slams Ilia Topuria

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria once stated on Joe Rogan’s podcast that he would only move up to fight for the lightweight title. Now, that moment has arrived — UFC CEO Dana White officially announced via Instagram Live that Topuria will take on Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight belt at UFC 317, scheduled for the promotion’s annual International Fight Week on June 28. Following the announcement, Topuria expressed his excitement and took a jab at Islam Makhachev.

After Belal Muhammad was dethroned by Jack Della Maddalena, Dagestani star Islam Makhachev had no hesitation moving up a weight class. In pursuit of a second belt, Makhachev vacated his lightweight title. Meanwhile, Spain’s Ilia Topuria — also chasing double-champ status — will now get his shot at lightweight gold this summer.

While fans were hoping for a showdown between Makhachev and Topuria — a fight many believed was destined to happen — some now accuse Makhachev of dodging the featherweight champ. Adding fuel to the fire, Topuria took to X and wrote:

“On June 28, another dream will come true. I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away. 17-0.”

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Ilia Topuria

In the main event of UFC 317, fans will witness Ilia Topuria take on Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. The co-main event features flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defending his belt against Kai Kara-France. Also on the main card, another exciting flyweight clash will take place between Brandon Royval and Manel Kape.

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Middleweight contenders Paulo Costa and Roman Kopylov will square off in a high-stakes bout, while lightweight standouts Beneil Dariush and Renato Moicano are set for an action-packed showdown. Overall, the event is generating major buzz, especially with Topuria’s return to the octagon as he pursues a second championship. This is a fight the entire MMA world will be watching closely.