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World Championship Doubleheader Headlines UFC International Fight Week™ at UFC 317: Topuria vs. Oliveira

UFC 317 TOPURIA vs. OLIVEIRA - MMA Fight Coverage - Penny Buffington

Las Vegas, NV – UFC International Fight Week™ is back with a bang as the world’s premier MMA organization returns to Las Vegas for one of the year’s most anticipated events. On Saturday, June 28, the T-Mobile Arena will host a world championship doubleheader that promises fireworks, history, and high stakes at UFC® 317: TOPURIA vs. OLIVEIRA.

Main Event: Topuria and Oliveira Battle for Vacant Lightweight Crown

In the main event, undefeated phenom Ilia Topuria (16-0), currently the UFC’s No. 3 pound-for-pound men’s fighter, makes the leap from featherweight to lightweight, looking to etch his name in the record books. Fighting out of Alicante, Spain, Topuria has torn through the competition with impressive finishes over legends like Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski. Now, he sets his sights on becoming just the 10th fighter in UFC history to claim titles in two weight classes.

Standing in his way is former lightweight king Charles Oliveira (35-10, 1 NC), the most dangerous submission artist in UFC history. The Brazilian superstar from São Paulo is hunting for redemption and legacy as he aims to become the first two-time UFC lightweight champion. With thrilling victories over Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Jim Miller, Oliveira looks to halt Topuria’s meteoric rise and reclaim his throne.

Co-Main Event: Pantoja Defends Flyweight Gold Against Kara-France

In the co-headliner, reigning UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja (29-5) defends his title for the fourth time against New Zealand’s knockout artist Kai Kara-France (25-11, 1 NC). Both fighters are alumni of The Ultimate Fighter: Season 24, adding an extra layer of rivalry to this title tilt.

Brazil’s Pantoja has submitted a who’s who of contenders, including Alex Perez and Kai Asakura, while Kara-France comes in hot after a highlight-reel KO win over Steve Erceg. Known for his aggressive style and lethal striking, Kara-France is determined to finally capture UFC gold.

Stacked Card with High-Stakes Matchups

Beyond the title bouts, UFC 317 is stacked with must-see clashes:

  • Beneil Dariush (#9) vs. Renato Moicano (#10) – Top 10 lightweights collide in a pivotal matchup with title implications.
  • Brandon Royval (#1) vs. Manel Kape (#6) – A flyweight battle with potential title shot stakes.
  • Paulo Costa (#12) vs. Roman Kopylov (#14) – Two middleweight sluggers go to war.
  • Jack Hermansson vs. Gregory Rodrigues – Veteran vs. rising force in a compelling middleweight showdown.
  • Jhonata Diniz vs. Justin Tafa – Heavyweight fireworks incoming.
  • Viviane Araujo (#8) vs. Tracy Cortez (#10) – Top 10 flyweights battle for positioning.

Event and Broadcast Details

UFC® 317: Topuria vs. Oliveira takes place on Saturday, June 28 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

  • Main Card: 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV
  • Prelims: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ and Disney+
  • Early Prelims: 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT on ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass and Disney+

Tickets are on sale now at AXS.com, with a purchase limit of eight per person.

Don’t Miss Fight Week

UFC International Fight Week™ is more than just fights — it’s a full celebration of MMA culture with fan events, athlete meet-and-greets, and the UFC Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Media members interested in covering the event can apply for credentials here.

Visit UFC.com for the latest bout updates. All fights are live and subject to change.


UFC 317 is poised to be a milestone event — with champions rising, divisions shifting, and legacies on the line, this summer in Las Vegas will be unforgettable.