Ilia Topuria explains advantage against Charles do Bronx after UFC 317 duel announced

Charles of the Bronx is a highlight of the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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Former Ultimate featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg.), Ilia Topuria had his wish granted by Dana White and will debut in the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg) already fighting for the belt against Charles of the Bronx, at UFC 317. Even though the Brazilian, who holds the record for most wins on the fast track in the organization's history, is one of the toughest opponents in El Matador's history, the Georgian/Spanish player claims to have the advantage for a simple reason.

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According to Topuria, the fact that he is undefeated in 16 professional fights, while Charles has suffered defeats in other bouts, gives him a psychological advantage for the duel. The fighter addressed this issue in an interview with 'The Joe Rogan Experience', the world's biggest podcast, in April this year.

“When you have 10 losses on your record, it’s not one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, it’s 10. When you go into a fight with a guy who has 10 losses, the confidence level is completely different. It’s completely different than when you go into a fight with an undefeated guy. He’s a dangerous guy… He’s never had a loss. It’s a different mentality. You’re going to have to kill him to make him quit,” he said.

On June 28, another dream will come true. I'll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I'm just fighting for my dreams. It's unfortunate that Makhachev ran away. 17-0 pic.twitter.com/YSutHz4U2h

Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) May 13, 2025

Following the example of the Brazilian's previous opponents, Topuria questioned the heart and resilience of Chute Boxe member Diego Lima, who has only two losses in the last nine years.

“In Charles’ case, if he encounters any adversity, he will go to the ground, sit down and wait until the referee ends the fight,” he concluded.

Charles and Topuria star in the most important event of the year

Main card of the UFC 317. Photo: Reproduction/UFC.

The two athletes will be in the main fight of the UFC 317, which takes place in Las Vegas and marks International Fight Week, one of the organization's most important dates. In addition to the pay-per-view, on June 26th the Hall of Fame ceremony also brings together great names from the history of the sport. This year, Vitor belfort e Amanda nunes will be included.