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yesterday

Islam Makhachev’s Move to Welterweight Fuels Controversy as UFC 317 Lightweight Title Fight Looms

Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira are set to clash for the vacant lightweight belt, while accusations of avoidance follow Makhachev’s divisional shift.

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Overview

  • Islam Makhachev vacated his UFC lightweight title after four successful defenses to pursue a welterweight championship, sparking allegations of avoiding Ilia Topuria.
  • Ilia Topuria, undefeated at 16-0, will face former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant 155-pound belt at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas.
  • Topuria, along with analysts Chael Sonnen and Unbiased EV, accused Makhachev of dodging a potential lightweight bout, claims that Makhachev and his camp strongly refute.
  • Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, defended the decision, dismissing critics and emphasizing Makhachev’s dominance in the lightweight division.
  • The verbal feud and speculation over legitimacy have intensified ahead of UFC 317, with Topuria asserting that Makhachev would need to earn a shot at him if he returns to lightweight.