UFC 317 at T‑Mobile Arena features a blockbuster main event: undefeated Ilia Topuria, fresh off highlight-reel KOs over Volkanovski and Holloway, steps into the lightweight division to challenge former champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant belt. Topuria arrives full of confidence and momentum, while “Do Bronx” brings cage IQ and a record for fight finishes. This clash of youth vs experience is one of the UFC’s most compelling title fights. Let’s look at the preview and prediction for this eagerly awaited main event.
ALSO READ: Topuria vs Oliveira, Du Plessis vs Chimaev Official for UFC 317 & 319.
Betting Preview
Saturday night’s (Sunday morning SA time) UFC main event is a clash of styles and narratives. Undefeated Ilia Topuria (1..21) enters this lightweight championship bout on a wave of dominance, having claimed featherweight gold and now seeking to become a two-division champion. His explosive striking, marked by highlight-reel knockouts, and seamless transition to lightweight have made him the overwhelming favourite.
2.06
Topuria vs Oliveira
Under 1.5
Total rounds
Odds are subject to change.
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In contrast, the former lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira (4.65), brings veteran craftsmanship and historic finishing prowess to the octagon. Despite being the betting underdog, Oliveira carries a legacy as the UFC’s all-time leader in finishes and submissions; his confidence and experience haven’t wavered, even in the face of recent setbacks.
Recent Fights & Key Stats
Ilia Topuria:
- Undefeated (16–0), with six KOs and eight submissions, known for precision and power across divisions.
- Former featherweight champ, now moving up with improved power and reduced stress in weight cut.
Charles Oliveira:
- Former lightweight champ plagued by defensive lapses, but he holds UFC records for finishes (20) and submissions (16).
- Recent confidence and blaze-in mentality, promising to lean heavily into grappling.
Head-to-Head Context:
Topuria’s imposing boxing and dynamic power contrast with Oliveira’s veteran submission-heavy approach. Key battle: stand-up vs ground game.
Betting Tips & Prediction
Prediction: Ilia Topuria to win at 1.22.
Best Bet: Ilia Topuria to win via KO, TKO or DQ at 1.58.
Value Bet: Ilia Topuria in Round 1 at 3.10.
This fight is fast-paced and dynamic, with Topuria controlling the tempo early using striking. Oliveira remains dangerous if he can bring Topuria to ground exchanges. Expect a contested opening round, followed by Topuria’s finishing power.
