Ilia Topuria: Lightweight Champion

Ilia Topuria's victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 has solidified his position as a dominant force in the lightweight division. His next move is highly anticipated, with several potential matchups on the horizon.

Potential Opponents:

• Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje Winner: Topuria has expressed interest in facing Pimblett, but believes Pimblett should secure another win before a title fight. Gaethje, on the other hand, feels he deserves a title shot after his previous sacrifices.
• Dustin Poirier: A wildcard option, Poirier's legendary status could attract Topuria, especially if Poirier secures a significant win in his upcoming fight.

Charles Oliveira: Former Lightweight Champion

Charles Oliveira's loss to Topuria has left fans wondering about his next steps. Despite the setback, Oliveira remains a formidable competitor.

Potential Opponents:

• Max Holloway: A long-anticipated matchup, Holloway's move to lightweight could set the stage for an exciting fight against Oliveira.
• Retirement: While unlikely, retirement remains a wildcard option for Oliveira, who has little left to prove in the sport.

Alexandre Pantoja: Flyweight Champion

Alexandre Pantoja's impressive win at UFC 317 has positioned him as a key figure in the flyweight division. His next fight could be against a rising star.

Potential Opponents:

• Joshua Van: Van's recent performances have made him a strong contender for a title shot against Pantoja.

Other Notable Fighters

• Kai Kara-France: Following his loss to Pantoja, Kara-France could face Manel Kape in a highly anticipated grudge match.
• Payton Talbott: Talbott's bounce-back win has reignited interest in his career, with Adrian Yanez being a potential next opponent.

Conclusion

UFC 317 has set the stage for several exciting matchups in the coming months. Fans can look forward to seeing how these top fighters navigate their next challenges and continue to shape the landscape of MMA.