In an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net, Russian UFC fighter Irina Alekseeva commented on the upcoming title fight between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira.
Irina Alekseeva exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
This fight is very competitive. One fighter is very strong in grappling and performs well on the ground, while the other hits hard. Ilia has extremely powerful punches. Given that Charles struggles to absorb solid strikes and often gets knocked down, I think if Topuria delivers a strong shot, Oliveira could find himself knocked out. Charles' chances will obviously lie in grappling. If they end up on the ground, Oliveira will have an opportunity to come up with something.
On May 14, it was announced that Islam Makhachev vacated the lightweight title to move up to the welterweight division. Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira will compete for the vacant title at UFC 317, which will take place on June 29.
The record for 28-year-old Topuria stands at 16 wins and no losses, while 35-year-old Oliveira has 35 wins, 10 losses, and a no contest.
