Charles Oliveira is scheduled to face Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC 317 , in a fight for the lightweight title (up to 70,2kg). Despite his experience and history as a former champion, the Brazilian enters as an underdog against an opponent on the rise, but who is moving up a weight class. Going against most analysts, Demian Maia believes that the physical difference could be a decisive factor in favor of the São Paulo native.
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During his appearance on the podcast 'Overdogs Brasil', Demian praised Topuria's form, classifying the Spaniard as a very dangerous fighter. However, he drew attention to a point that, according to him, is often underestimated: the fact that Charles is physically bigger and has already adapted to the category. For Maia, this detail could make a difference in a fight that promises to be very tough.
“Man, Topuria is a guy who’s flying high, he’s definitely a very dangerous guy. But we have to remember one thing: he’s moving up in weight, and Charles is big, you know? So that could play an important role in this fight, which we sometimes dismiss. We think: ‘Tupuria is flying high, he’s in exceptional form’, but Topuria has to see how he’s going to do in this weight class. But, having said that, it’s going to be a very tough fight,” explained Demian Maia.
Charles "Do Bronx" Oliveira debuted in the UFC in August 2010 and now, 15 years later, he will have the chance to fight for the belt again and reclaim the title that was once his. The Brazilian will face Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC 317 , scheduled for June 28th, during International Fight Week.
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Read More about: Charles of the Bronx, Demian Maia, Ilia Topuria, UFC 317
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