Cheima Moufdil
Charles Oliveira isn’t rattled by Ilia Topuria’s trash talk ahead of their UFC 317 title clash — in fact, he’s laughing. But behind the smile lies serious intent.
The former lightweight champion returns to the octagon this Saturday night in Las Vegas, looking to reclaim the belt he lost to Islam Makhachev. Standing in his way is undefeated sensation Ilia Topuria, who has promised fireworks in his first lightweight title bout. Oliveira, however, remains unfazed.
“It’s another dude that’s talking who’s gonna fold in front of me,” Oliveira declared at UFC 317 media day. “In reality, everyone knows what’s gonna happen.”
Oliveira’s 15-year UFC career is one of the most decorated in the sport’s history. With more post-fight bonuses than Topuria has total professional wins, the Brazilian is confident that experience and hunger will once again carry him to gold.
“It’s the evolution,” he said. “I’ve gotten better. I’ve got hunger. I’ve got faith. If he thinks he’s seen firepower or jiu-jitsu, he hasn’t seen mine. I’m going to become a champion again.”
That drive is personal, too. Oliveira’s wife, Vitoria Brum, shared on UFC Countdown that he’s vowed to win the belt for their son, Dom — born after Oliveira lost the title.
But to Oliveira, it’s not pressure. It’s purpose.
“When there’s faith, there’s no pressure. I know the day is coming. The day is now. Listen to me — I’m going to become a champion again.”