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‘My Apologies in Advance’ – Ilia Topuria Breaks Silence After UFC 317 Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated May 13, 2025 9:10 PM ET

UFC 317 is now officially on the books, and it promises fireworks as International Fight Week gets its crown jewel: Ilia Topuria vs the always-dangerous Charles Oliveira. Scheduled for June 28, this bout headlines one of the most anticipated events of the year. With the featherweight title in his rearview and a flawless record in hand, Topuria is heading into the lightweight spotlight with one goal—gold. Now, he’s speaking out for the first time since the fight was announced, and his message has fans talking.

Ilia Topuria, never one to hold back, took to X with a message that was both personal and provocative. ‘On June 28, another dream will come true. I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away. 17-0.’ With one tweet, Topuria not only addressed his current opponent, but also stirred the pot for future contenders.

On June 28, another dream will come true. I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away. 17-0 pic.twitter.com/YSutHz4U2h
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) May 13, 2025

Topuria has long signaled that the move to lightweight was inevitable. After vacating his featherweight belt, the unbeaten contender wasted no time zeroing in on the division’s top names. Now, he gets his shot against a former champion who recently scored an impressive win over Michael Chandler at UFC 309.

While Oliveira is a formidable test, Topuria’s words make it clear—he’s not here for respect, he’s here for legacy. UFC 317 might just be the night ‘El Matador’ makes history.

Fan reactions quickly followed the announcement, with some defending Topuria and others predicting an upset. One fan posted, ‘Islam vacated his belt LOL,’ suggesting support for Topuria’s claim that Makhachev avoided the matchup. Another warned, ‘Charles will humble you. Stay tuned for 17-1,’ teasing the possibility of Topuria’s undefeated streak coming to an end. As UFC 317 draws closer, the debate is only heating up

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

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