UFC 317 is one of the most anticipated events of 2025, headlined by a thrilling lightweight title fight between undefeated contender Ilia Topuria and former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. Taking place on June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this event promises explosive action and high stakes as both fighters vie for the vacant lightweight championship.
The Main Event: Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira
Ilia Topuria (16-0) is a rising star in the UFC, known for his knockout power and relentless style. Originally a featherweight champion, Topuria recently moved up to lightweight and has been on an impressive winning streak, including highlight-reel finishes over top featherweights like Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. At just 28 years old, the Spanish-Georgian fighter is chasing his second UFC title and looks to cement his place among the elite.
Charles Oliveira (35-9-1, 1 NC) is a seasoned veteran and former lightweight champion with UFC records for most finishes (20), submissions (16), and post-fight bonuses (20). After an 11-fight winning streak that included victories over Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, Oliveira lost his title to Islam Makhachev but remains a formidable force in the division. Known for his slick grappling and striking, Oliveira is eager to reclaim the lightweight crown.
Co-Main Event: Flyweight Championship
The card also features a flyweight title bout with champion Alexandre Pantoja defending his belt against challenger Kai Kara-France, adding even more excitement to an already stacked fight night.
How to Watch UFC 317 Live
In the United States:
- ESPN+ Pay-Per-View: UFC 317 will be available live on ESPN+ PPV. To watch, you’ll need an ESPN+ subscription ($9.99/month or $99.99/year) plus the PPV purchase ($79.99).
- Preliminary Fights: Early prelims can be streamed on UFC Fight Pass, while prelims are available on ESPN2 and UFC Fight Pass.
- Main Card: The main card begins at approximately 10 p.m. ET and will stream exclusively on ESPN+ PPV.
Outside the US:
- United Kingdom: Watch on TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport) via Discovery+ subscription (£29.99/month). UFC Fight Pass also streams prelims live.
- Australia: Kayo Sports streams UFC 317 live for AUD $59.95 PPV without requiring a separate subscription.
- Other Regions: UFC Fight Pass offers worldwide access to prelims and past events, while VPN services can help bypass geo-restrictions for official broadcasters.
Expert Predictions and Fight Analysis
Former UFC contender Chael Sonnen predicts a TKO victory for Oliveira, citing Topuria’s recent jump to lightweight and lack of the typical weight-cutting adversity. Sonnen believes Oliveira’s durability and pace will wear down the younger fighter.
Conversely, analysts like Brendan Schaub favor Topuria, expecting a stoppage within two rounds due to his power and momentum.
Why UFC 317 Matters
This fight marks a pivotal moment in the lightweight division, with the title vacant after Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight. Both fighters bring contrasting styles and compelling backstories, making this a must-watch event for MMA fans.
Final Tips for Fans
- Plan Ahead: Purchase your PPV early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Check Time Zones: The main card starts at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT).
- Use Official Streams: Avoid unofficial streams to ensure the best quality and support the sport.
- Follow Live Updates: For round-by-round results and highlights, follow trusted MMA news sites and social media channels.
UFC 317 promises to deliver unforgettable moments and possibly crown a new lightweight champion. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, make sure you don’t miss this electrifying night of fights!
