Ilia Topuria’s first test since he moved up to the lightweight division will come against a dangerous former champion.
With Islam Makhachev vacating his title, Topuria will now face Charles Oliveira for the 155 pound gold in the main event of UFC 317 on June 28.
Though he may not be the pound-for-pound number one in the sport, Oliveira is still a tough test for Topuria on his arrival into the division.
‘Do Bronx’ has become one of the most popular fighters on the roster in recent years where he produced a memorable run as champion.
That being said, it’s no surprise that fellow fighters are putting their hands up to try and help Oliveira pull off the upset against Topuria on International Fight Week.
- READ MORE: Conor McGregor revives UFC comeback talks with weird Dana White demand after retirement admission
Jean Silva wants to help Charles Oliveira prepare for Ilia Topuria ahead of UFC 317
Jean Silva has offered to train with Charles Oliveira ahead of UFC 317 so that he can replicate Ilia Topuria’s style in their sparring sessions.
In recent times, Silva has become one of the biggest rising stars on the roster as the #11-ranked featherweight contender.
The Fighting Nerds representative has proven himself to be both a dangerous striker and submission artist, with signature wins over the likes of Bryce Mitchell.
In an interview with Ag Fight, he extended the olive branch to ‘Do Bronx’ in case his fellow Brazilian is in need of some training partners that can accurately imitate ‘El Matador’.
As far as finding someone that can replicate Topuria’s game, even if it’s not a perfect fit, Oliveira could do a lot worse than having Silva in the gym.
“I’m available, I’m the same size as Topuria. If Charles wants to use me as his sparring partner, to do his training, I’m here. I know how to imitate Topuria perfectly. I even know his facial expressions.”
Jean Silva believes that the Charles Oliveira who beat Michael Chandler will ‘run over’ Ilia Topuria
Jean Silva also gave his prediction for the main event of UFC 317 which many fans expect to be incredibly entertaining for as long as it lasts.
Both Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira are two of the roster’s best finishers, the difference being that ‘Do Bronx’ has suffered big losses in the past whereas ‘El Matador’ is yet to taste defeat.
The former lightweight champion can pose a lot of different threats to Topuria but many feel like the power of the former featherweight king might be too much.
Jean Silva believes that after seeing Oliveira dominate Michael Chandler at UFC 309 last November, the same thing can happen on June 28 if the Brazilian doesn’t lose a step.
“If it’s Charles who fought the last fight, it’s going to be insane. If it’s with the same proposal, Charles is going to run over Topuria.”