Particle.news
Download on the App Store
20 ARTICLES
·
yesterday

Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira Prepare for Lightweight Title Clash as Training Camps Shift

Topuria splits from lifelong coaches while Oliveira enlists a mimic to exploit weaknesses ahead of UFC 317.

Image
Feb 17, 2024; Anaheim, California, USA; Ilia Topuria fights against Alexander Volkanovski during UFC 298 at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Image
Image

Overview

  • Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira are set to fight for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas, following Islam Makhachev's decision to vacate the belt.
  • Topuria has parted ways with his longtime coaches, the Climent brothers, and is now training in new camps, citing logistical challenges as the reason for the split.
  • Oliveira's camp has recruited Jean Silva, who is mimicking Topuria's style and highlighting potential vulnerabilities in his striking defense and positional awareness.
  • The fight underscores broader debates about multi-division title pursuits, with critics like Michael Bisping questioning the trend of champions vacating belts instead of defending their divisions.
  • Paddy Pimblett, a rising contender, has reignited his rivalry with Topuria, publicly speculating about a potential title defense matchup if Topuria wins at UFC 317.