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3d ago

UFC 317 Set for Lightweight Title Clash as Makhachev Eyes Welterweight Gold

Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira will headline UFC 317 for the vacant lightweight belt, while Islam Makhachev prepares to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title later this year.

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Overview

  • Ilia Topuria, undefeated at 16-0, vacated his featherweight title to face former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant 155-pound belt at UFC 317 on June 28.
  • Islam Makhachev, after four successful lightweight title defenses, has vacated his belt to pursue a second championship at welterweight against Jack Della Maddalena.
  • Dana White confirmed the matchups, emphasizing the UFC’s focus on legacy-defining fights and divisional reshuffles for marquee stars.
  • Public exchanges between Makhachev and Topuria have intensified, with Topuria accusing Makhachev of avoiding a direct fight and Makhachev defending his decision to move up in weight.
  • The lightweight and welterweight divisions are undergoing significant shifts, with Topuria and Makhachev’s moves impacting contender hierarchies and future title opportunities.