Charles Oliveira appeared unconcerned and even amused by Ilia Topuria’s pre-fight trash talk leading up to UFC 317, yet this hasn`t prevented him from offering confident predictions of his own.
Oliveira aims to become a two-time UFC lightweight champion when he faces the undefeated rising star in the main event of UFC’s International Fight Week pay-per-view this Saturday night in Las Vegas. He is resolute in his vow to be the first fighter to finish the former featherweight titleholder inside the MMA cage.
Speaking at Wednesday`s UFC 317 media day about the upcoming bout and Topuria`s predictions, Oliveira stated, “In reality, everyone knows exactly what is going to happen. He is just another guy talking who will end up folding in front of me.”
Oliveira holds numerous records within the UFC and believes his extensive 15-year tenure in the promotion provides a significant advantage. To put it in perspective, Topuria made his professional MMA debut in Spain only after Oliveira had already competed 12 times in the octagon. A decade later, the Brazilian has accumulated more post-fight bonuses than Topuria has total career victories in the sport.
“It’s the experience, it’s the development, it’s the continuous evolution. I’ve become a better fighter,” Oliveira explained. “It’s about maintaining that intense desire, that hunger, continuing to chase the dream and truly wanting this – that`s what has been transformative. It consistently improves, getting better and better. And for all those who speak against me, keep talking. It makes no difference. I am not going to stop.”
He continued, “You are free to say whatever you wish. I will maintain my hunger and my unwavering faith. I have absolute conviction that this will occur. If he believes he possesses formidable striking power, he has not yet witnessed mine. If he thinks his jiu-jitsu is superior, he hasn`t seen my jiu-jitsu. Let me tell you clearly, things are going to transpire. I am going to reclaim the championship.”
Oliveira’s wife, Vitoria Brum, revealed on the UFC Countdown show that the fighter has made a heartfelt promise to win the championship belt for their son, Dom, who was born after Oliveira`s title loss to Islam Makhachev.
However, the talented Chute Boxe representative insists he will not feel any additional pressure to fulfill that promise this Saturday.
“There is no pressure whatsoever. When a promise is made, there is no resulting pressure,” Oliveira affirmed. “When you possess faith, promises do not impose pressure. You will not encounter anyone with greater faith than I have. There is absolutely zero pressure, and I know definitively that the day for me to become champion is drawing near. That day is arriving right now. Listen closely to my words: I am going to become champion once again, and that moment is imminent.”
