UFC 317 Main Event Preview - Topuria vs. Oliveira: Can El Matador defend the Lightweight title against Do Bronxs? June 26, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is primed for an electrifying lightweight showdown at UFC 317 this Saturday, June 28th, with the main card kicking off at 10:00 PM EDT. This highly anticipated bout pits the undefeated, surging force Ilia Topuria against the submission maestro and former champion, Charles Oliveira, in a clash that promises significant implications for the top of the lightweight division. Both fighters bring distinct, high-level skill sets to the octagon, setting the stage for a compelling contest of styles.

Ilia Topuria, holding a pristine professional record, has rapidly ascended the ranks with his formidable striking and knockout power. His technique is characterized by precise combinations, excellent head movement, and the ability to generate immense force behind his punches, making him a constant threat on the feet. While primarily known for his striking, Topuria has also demonstrated solid defensive grappling and improved offensive wrestling, showcasing a well-rounded game that allows him to dictate the terms of the fight. His game plan will likely involve maintaining distance, countering Oliveira's aggression, and landing fight-ending strikes.

Topuria vs. Oliveira Sports Bet Odds

Ilia "El Matador" Topuria is the favorite to win the match. Here are our latest odds:

• Topuria as the favorite has a money line of -470 while Oliviera as the underdog has +370.
• El Matador winning by KO/TKO or DQ has a money line of -150.
• Olveira pinning Topuria via submission has a money line of +1000.

What makes Topuria especially dangerous is his confidence and composure under pressure. Despite facing seasoned competition, he has remained unshaken, often controlling the tempo from the outset. His ability to seamlessly blend aggression with tactical patience has made him one of the most feared prospects in the division. A win over Oliveira would not only extend his undefeated streak but also cement his case for a title shot or even crown him as the next lightweight king.

Charles Oliveira, a true legend of the lightweight division, boasts an unparalleled submission game, holding numerous UFC records for submissions. His jiu-jitsu is dynamic and opportunistic, capable of securing chokes or joint locks from seemingly impossible positions, and he excels at transitioning between submissions. Beyond his grappling, Oliveira possesses an increasingly dangerous striking arsenal, including powerful knees and elbows in the clinch, which he often uses to close the distance and initiate takedowns. For Oliveira, the path to victory will involve weathering Topuria's initial storm, utilizing his range to set up entries, and ultimately getting the fight to the ground where his unparalleled grappling can shine.

Oliveira's championship pedigree and experience in high-stakes bouts give him a crucial edge in terms of octagon IQ and resilience. Despite setbacks in recent bouts, his ability to rebound and adjust remains a defining trait. With his back potentially against the wall, expect a focused and hungry Oliveira, determined to reclaim his place among the elite.

With stylistic contrasts, elite skill sets, and high stakes, Topuria vs. Oliveira is shaping up to be a can't-miss battle—one that could very well steal the show at UFC 317.

Topuria vs. Oliveira Tale of the Tape

Ilia 'El Matador' Topuria	VS	Charles 'Do Bronxs' Oliveira
16-0-0	Record	35-10-0, 1NC
Win	Last Fight	Win
Georgia	Country	Brazil
5' 7"	Height	5' 10"
169.70 LBS	Weight	167.60 LBS
69"	Reach	74"
37"	Leg Reach	41"
47%	Significant Strikes	55%
64%	Strikes Defense	49%
61%	Takedown Accuracy	40%
92%	Takedown Defense	56%