
Oliveira, Paddy and Islam: Ilia Topuria lays out his ideal slate
Brett Okamoto
created: June 28, 2025, 5:35 p.m. | updated: June 28, 2025, 10:42 p.m.
Open Extended ReactionsLAS VEGAS -- Six months ago, shortly before he agreed to vacate the UFC's featherweight championship, Ilia Topuria made a shocking declaration.
If Ilia Topuria, left, beats Charles Oliveria at UFC 317, he wants to fight Paddy Pimblett, right, in his first lightweight title defense.
Paddy would get a win and then we would fight," Topuria said.
Could Ilia Topuria, left, and Islam Mahkachev, right, fight in Spain?
When Ilia Topuria decides to retire, could he try boxing?
2 weeks, 4 days ago: www.espn.com - TOP