Ilia Topuria is the undefeated force tearing through divisions, and now he’s aiming for UFC gold again—this time at lightweight. But, even before the title shot was announced, ‘La Leyenda’ left clues in an interview game that fans are now rushing to rewatch. It only took one word per fighter, and Ilia Topuria did not mince words. Every response seemed like a jab or a head kick—sharp, slashing, and entirely purposeful. But it was the word he chose for Charles Oliveira that truly confused many. Not an insult. Not sarcasm. Just a surprising show of respect—and now it’s come full circle.

The Spanish-Georgian treated the game, which was intended to be entertaining, like a press conference with brass knuckles. Conor McGregor was mocked. Islam Makhachev was dismissed. What about Charles Oliveira? Topuria addressed him as “The Lion.” That choice speaks volumes, especially given their upcoming fight for the vacant lightweight belt at UFC 317. This was more than simply a compliment; it revealed Ilia Topuria’s seriousness toward the Brazilian veteran.

It’s a stark contrast to how he perceived Conor McGregor, whom he called a “fake fighter.” The Spanish-Georgian’s hatred for the Irishman has been building for some time. He’s been calling him out, taunting his inaction, and publicly mocking McGregor’s continuous comeback fake. ‘La Leyenda’ believes it’s just smoke and mirrors—an illusion of relevance with no genuine threat behind it. That’s why he dismissed him with one harsh label and never looked back. McGregor’s world is all bark and no cages.

Then there’s Islam Makhachev, who Ilia Topuria believes did more than just avoid a fight; he avoided a challenge. The former featherweight king has accused the former lightweight champion of avoiding their fight in order to go up to welterweight and pursue a different crown. That’s why “Street Fighter” was more than simply a joke. It was a subtle jab at someone who, Topuria feels, avoided the real smoke at 155.

Charles Oliveira, however, is not like the others. Despite the wounds, setbacks, and chaos, Ilia Topuria continues to refer to him as the lion. That’s no small thing. Especially from a man who values brutal honesty and rarely gives praise until it’s deserved. As UFC 317 approaches, ‘La Leyenda’ would be excited, as he’s prepared to hunt—and he knows the lion isn’t going down easily. But who is most likely to win the fight? Well, a UFC veteran has made a stunning prediction. So, what did he say?

Ilia Topuria predicts the future against Charles Oliveira

When Ilia Topuria referred to Oliveira as ‘The Lion,’ it was more than just respect; it was a prophecy. In the same breath that he praised Charles above all his rivals, he also outlined the conclusion to their narrative. He believes that UFC 317 will be the night the legend conquers new territory, rather than the night the lion returns.

That combination of respect and unwavering ambition? Classic Ilia Topuria. He can nod to your grandeur with one hand while digging your tomb with the other. Topuria is no longer hiding behind press-ready replies or diplomatic respect now that the cage has been closed and the names have been carved on the UFC 317 main event card. In fact, he’s already sent an apology to Oliveira.

Not because he is unsure. Not because he feels guilty. But because he sees the end clearly, it’s as if he’s already experienced it. The dream is written. The event has been scheduled. In his world, the belt is just as nice as his. Charles isn’t an obstacle to him; he’s an integral part of the adventure. The final boss before history begins anew.

Taking to his X account, he wrote, “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.” That is how confident ‘La Leyenda’ is. No champion stands in the way of greatness; the pathway is wide open. And Ilia Topuria isn’t simply walking it. He is already deciding where to place the second belt on his wall. What do you think? Will he win the fight? Let us know in the comments.