Latest news with #Lightweight
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Charles Oliveira Issues a Brutal Warning to Ilia Topuria Before UFC 317
In just a few weeks, UFC 317 will deliver one of the most explosive matchups in recent memory. The main event features Ilia Topuria making his lightweight debut, and he's skipping the line—going straight for gold. But waiting for him is no warm welcome. Instead, it's a battle-hardened former champion in Charles Oliveira, and ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, Oliveira is making it clear that he's not here to play nice. While much of the pre-fight spotlight has focused on the rise of Topuria, Charles Oliveira has remained largely silent—until now. In a recent clip shared by Full Violence on TikTok, Oliveira finally broke his silence and did so with no hesitation. 'It's a great fight, he's a great fighter. But I don't need to prove anything to anyone about who I am,' he said. 'This fight came at a huge opportunity. I will knock out this guy. That's for real.' That statement shouldn't come as a surprise to longtime fans. Oliveira holds the UFC record for most finishes in promotional history, with a staggering 20 stoppages. He's also the all-time leader in submission victories. During his title reign, Oliveira fought Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje consecutively—and finished all three. That stretch of dominance solidified his reputation as one of the most dangerous lightweights in UFC history, showcasing both striking and submission prowess. Charles OliveiraGetty Images With momentum on his side and experience at the highest level, Oliveira's words may not be hype—they might be a serious warning of what's to come. Related: Former UFC Champion 'Pissed' After Being Passed Over for Ilia Topuria Fight Related: Dricus Du Plessis Sends Explicit Response to Contender Ahead of UFC 319
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Justin Gaethje Frustrated After Ilia Topuria vs Charles Oliveira Title Fight Announcement
UFC 317 will mark the start of Ilia Topuria's quest for double champion status, as he moves up to lightweight and immediately challenges for UFC gold. In his divisional debut, Topuria faces one of the sport's most feared submission specialists in Charles Oliveira—a former titleholder known for breaking records and finishing elite opponents on the ground. But while the spotlight shines on the matchup, one former UFC champion is feeling overlooked—and he's not staying silent. That former titleholder is Justin Gaethje. On a recent episode of the Anik & Florian Podcast, co-host Jon Anik shed light on a private conversation he had with Gaethje, revealing the lightweight contender's frustration. 'He was pissed, right? He feels like certainly he was passed over in favor of Charles Oliveira for this opportunity against Ilia Topuria,' Anik said. He added, 'I think what Justin Gaethje and his manager Ali Abdelaziz are looking for is just some sort of guarantee that they will be next.' Advertisement Gaethje's irritation comes on the heels of a critical bounce-back win at UFC 313, where he defeated Rafael Fiziev by majority decision. It was a rematch of their razor-close bout at UFC 286, and this time, Gaethje clearly separated himself in the third round, earning Fight of the Night honors. The win moved him to No. 3 in the official UFC lightweight rankings. Charles Oliveira, currently ranked No. 2, returned to action at UFC 309, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Michael Chandler. The bout marked his bounce-back fight after suffering a loss to Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 300. Oliveira earned the win on all three judges' scorecards, reinforcing his position as a top contender and strengthening his case for another shot at the belt. Justin GaethjeGetty Images With Gaethje and Oliveira neck-and-neck in the rankings and both coming off high-level wins, it's understandable why the UFC's decision to go with Oliveira over Gaethje could be seen as a toss-up. Each man had a legitimate case, but ultimately it was Oliveira who landed the Topuria sweepstakes. UFC CEO Dana WhitePhoto by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC With Dana White remaining noncommittal about Gaethje's future, the road ahead remains uncertain. However, if history is any indicator, the former champion is unlikely to stay sidelined for long. A clash with the winner of UFC 317 could still be in play—and Gaethje is making sure his name stays in the conversation. Related: Jake Paul Responds to Logan's MMA Challenge in Latest Twist to Sibling Rivalry Related: New Details Emerge in Fatal Crash Involving Francis Ngannou: Report
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Midnight Mania: Mokaev Vs. Molina In Karate Combat?!?
Welcome to Midnight Mania! Let's start the night off by taking look back over the three biggest stories of Friday, May 9, 2025. Stakes raised! Dana White confirms Ilia Topuria will challenge for Lightweight title next at UFC 317 (but with a Belal catch): Everybody already knew this, but it's nice to have more official confirmation. Heavy Jose Aldo forced to change weight classes, UFC 315 bout 'renegotiated' following botched weigh ins: It's frankly amazing Jose Aldo made Bantamweight so many times at his age. If he goes back to Featherweight next, how about Aldo vs. Patricio Pitbull? See ya! Jon Jones ditches Tom Aspinall fight, heads overseas to coach TUF knockoff against Nate Diaz: Jon Jones would rather fight a gorilla or coach Russian TUF than actually sign the contract to face Aspinall. Boo! Insomnia Muhammad Mokaev and Jeff Molina left the UFC under very different circumstances, but both of these Flyweight outcasts were/are top-notch prospects. The UFC Flyweight ranks would be stronger with them involved, but maybe a Karate Combat clash is the next best thing? Advertisement Japanese wrestling ace Rei Tsuruya is training with Henry Cejudo after his first pro loss. Reminder: he's still just 23 years old! It's good to see Rory MacDonald seemingly happy and content with his MMA retirement. Welterweight has too many contenders right now between Shavkat, Islam, Sean Brady, Ian Garry, and Joaquin Buckley. How do you unravel that pile? Some interesting technical looks from Jack Della Maddalena! He has one of the most unusual approaches to escaping bottom position of any top-ranked contender. UFC's broadcast shows seem increasingly unhinged as of late. An excellent Flyweight booking! I predict great scrambles and huge overhand swings. Slips, rips, and KO clips A picture-perfect left kick to the liver: Advertisement Winning via KO with your literal SECOND strike of the fight must be an amazing feeling. Getting trapped in crucifix and elbowed into oblivion is a brutal way to lose. Random Land It's time for some more friendly gorilla content. Midnight Music: Rock, 2008 Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way. More from
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Dustin Poirier Makes Huge Personal Announcement on Friday
The MMA world got some exciting news on Friday afternoon when UFC legend Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier, who last stepped into the octagon on June 1 for a shot at the Lightweight title, made a major announcement during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show." Poirier has long been in the mix for a championship belt, and while he hasn't captured it, he'll have another chance to claim gold on July 19 when he takes on fan-favorite Max Holloway for the BMF title at UFC 318—an electrifying matchup between two of the sport's most entertaining fighters. Advertisement But the announcement didn't stop there. Poirier also revealed that this will be his final UFC fight. The Louisiana native is expected to take off his gloves for good following the bout, which adds even more emotion and weight to a legacy already marked by heart, grit, and over 14 years of unforgettable moments in the octagon. "The Last Dance," Poirier posted on social media. Fans reacted to Poirier's retirement news: "When your gone from the UFC you will forever be missed. Win, lose or draw you always put your all out there. Much love diamond, ONE of ONE!" A fan said. Advertisement "Dang... crazy to think this is your final battle, been watching you since you started, all the ups and downs. Good luck to the both of you!" Another fan posted. "Finish where is all started in your home town," someone else added. One more fan commented, "One more time!!!" Benoit Saint Denis (blue gloves) fights Dustin Poirier (red gloves) during UFC 299© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Poirier's career has been defined by some of the most captivating fights of the past decade. A former interim champion and a three-time challenger for the UFC Lightweight Title, he's also earned multiple 'Fight of the Year' honors along the way. With a professional record of 30-9, Poirier has cemented his legacy as one of the most respected and entertaining fighters in MMA history. Related: Boxing Legend Sounds Off on Dana White's Boxing Takeover
