Ilia Topuria Vs. Islam Makhachev is no longer there.
According to an official announcement made by Dana White on Instagram, “Dagestani Destroyer” has vacated a lightweight championship to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the newly-winning Welterweight Crown.
As a result, Topuria faces Charles Oliveira, a lightweight contender ranked No. 2 in the UFC 317 headliner on Saturday, June 28th, with the winner leaving as the new 155-pound champion.
In response to the news on social media, Topuria apologised in advance to “Do Bronx”, throwing shade at Makhachev, accusing her of fleeing the previously rumored title Tilt.
“Another dream will come true on June 28th,” Topuria wrote in X following the official announcement. “I will be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, I apologize in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s a shame that Makhachev has escaped.”
Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev could come back
Makhachev vs. Topuria had all of the big hits within the Octagon, but their individual pursuits for the glory of the dual division separate them. For now. If both Makhachev and “El Matador” succeed in bidding more UFC Gold, it could be that they could come together to become one of the biggest fights in promotional history.
Until then, you’ll have to settle for Topuria vs. Oliveira. This is a very good consolation award.
Here’s how UFC 317 has been formed so far: