Ilia Topuria is in serious trouble of getting finished by Charles Oliveira, according to a former world title challenger.
Later tonight, ‘El Matador’ will battle it out with ‘Do Bronxs’ at UFC 317 inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
Having looked so explosive thus far into his career, many expect the Spanish-Georgian to dominate the contest. Brendan Schaub thinks Topuria stops Oliveira inside two rounds.
However, another former UFC star sees it going the other way.
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Chael Sonnen says Ilia Topuria hasn’t sacrificed enough to beat Charles Oliveira
Chael Sonnen is concerned that making lightweight has been too easy for Ilia Topuria.
With that in mind, he expects Charles Oliveira to overwhelm the power puncher.
In a video uploaded to his YouTube channel, Sonnen said: “Size does matter your first time up, and my concern with Ilia’s interview is he keeps talking about how much he’s enjoying 155lbs.
“Suffering is a big part of this game. ‘Have I sacrificed more than that guy? Do I deserve to win?’ He has foregone some of the suffering and some of the sacrifice, and I think Charles is going to wear on him.
“I think this concept of knocking Charles out is novel, but it’s a very difficult thing to do. I’ve seen people get very close, I’ve seen Charles down, and I just think Charles is going to walk through that fire.
“I am taking Charles Oliveira by TKO.”
‘Ilia Topuria’s hardest match-up was me’… Surprise UFC fighter claimed he gave ‘El Matador’ a run for his money
While Oliveira could present a tough challenge for Topuria, another fighter believes he gave the warrior a run for his money.
This individual went head-to-head with the heavy-handed athlete and heard the final bell.
During a press conference, a UFC star said he gave Topuria his hardest fight.