UFC Battle Main Event: Topuria versus Oliveira Initially Lists Betting Lines
S Square-Off: Topuria Takes on Oliveira in UFC 317's Main Event
Get ready for an electrifying battle, folks! The UFC 317 main event will see Ilia Topuria lock horns with Charles Oliveira at the T-Mobile Arena in Sin City, Las Vegas. The highly-anticipated tussle, part of the UFC's International Fight Week, is scheduled for June 28.
Stepping up to the lightweight division after relinquishing his featherweight title, Topuria eyes a two-division title reign, making a name for himself alongside legends like Conor McGregor, who earned the feat in 2016[1][2]. An undefeated force, "The Gladiator" boasts devastating striking skills[2]. Meanwhile, the 35-year-old Oliveira, a former lightweight champion, brings a formidable Jiu-jitsu game and a veteran reputation, making him a potential upset candidate[2].
Betting Odds Rundown
As of the most recent updates, Ilia Topuria is the clear-cut favorite, with odds of -350. Just the opposite, Charles Oliveira holds the underdog title, boasting odds of +285[2]. The odds reflect Topuria's perfect record and outstanding featherweight performances, while Oliveira's status as a seasoned fighter with a notable career still earns him contender status.
Trash Talk and Title Conflicts
The lightweight title picture has been in flux, and Topuria's social media barbs pointed at his UFC 317 opponent, Charles Oliveira, showcase his determination. Aiming for the championship, Topuria remarked on social media, "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"[3].
Original rumors speculated that UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev might defend his title against Topuria, but Jack Della Maddalena's win in the division altered plans. With the new championship scenario in place, Makhachev's coach, Ali Abdelaziz, stated that the lightweight champion would get an immediate shot at the title against Della Maddalena[4]. As the UFC makes plans for Della Maddalena vs. Topuria, the UFC lightweight title is expected to become vacant the moment UFC 317 begins.
[1] - https://www.sportskeeda.com/ufc/news-charles-oliveira-reclaims-ufc-lightweight-title-beating-michael-chandler[2] - https://www.sportskeeda.com/ufc/news-ilia-topuria-is-a-rising-star-in-ufc-heres-what-does-his-future-hold[3] - https://www.mma-today.com/mma-news-results/ilia-topuria-apologizes-to-charles-oliveira-ahead-of-ufc-317-main-event/[4] - https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/04/islam-makhachev-TAG-team-discusses-lightweight-title-future-after-ufc-289-decision-loss-arman-tsarukyan-ufc-news
On June 28, the highly-anticipated match between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira in UFC 317 will demonstrate the excitement of mixed-martial-arts during the International Fight Week in Las Vegas. As the main event, this lightweight division battle will captivate sports lovers worldwide. Regarding betting odds, while Ilia Topuria currently holds the favorite status with odds of -350, Charles Oliveira is considered the underdog with odds of +285, reflecting their respective prestige in the UFC.
