Getty Images

Charles Oliveira Issues a Brutal Warning to Ilia Topuria Before UFC 317

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated May 21, 2025 9:43 PM ET

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.’

@fullviolence
Charles Oliveira on Ilia Topuria: “I will knock out this guy.” Full lunch sit-down dropping soon. #CharlesOliveira #IliaTopuria #UFC
♬ original sound - Full Violence

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.

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.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: