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Islam Makhachev Vacates Lightweight Title, UFC 317 to Feature Topuria vs. Oliveira

The UFC has confirmed Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira will fight for the vacant lightweight belt, while Makhachev moves up to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for welterweight gold.

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MADRID, SPAIN - MARCH 29: UFC fighter Ilia Topuria during press conference after WOW 17 at Madrid Arena on March 29, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

Overview

  • Islam Makhachev has officially vacated his lightweight title after four successful defenses to pursue a welterweight championship fight against Jack Della Maddalena.
  • Ilia Topuria, the former featherweight champion, will face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title in the main event of UFC 317 during International Fight Week in Las Vegas.
  • The UFC has also announced several other title fights for UFC 317, including Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Kara-France for the flyweight belt and a middleweight clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319.
  • Topuria, undefeated at 16-0, aims to claim his second UFC title, while Oliveira seeks to reclaim the lightweight crown he previously held.
  • This reshuffling highlights the UFC's focus on balancing divisional continuity while accommodating high-profile double-champion ambitions.