Overview

• Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira are confirmed to fight for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317 in Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.
• Islam Makhachev vacated the lightweight belt to pursue a welterweight title bout, sparking debates about divisional integrity and matchmaking strategies.
• Paddy Pimblett, a long-time rival of Topuria, has positioned himself as a potential first title challenger if Topuria wins the belt.
• Experts are divided on the fight, with Topuria’s camp confident in his knockout power, while others highlight Oliveira’s submission skills and wrestling improvements.
• The UFC’s evolving approach to multi-division ambitions and fan-driven narratives continues to shape its title bouts and promotional strategies.