The MMA world is heating up as summer cards begin to take shape. With major UFC events approaching, top fighters are beginning to lock in and give fans a behind-the-scenes look at how preparations are going. Ilia Topuria, the undefeated Spanish-Georgian phenom, has dropped a new training update ahead of his high-profile fight against former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira.
Meanwhile, Dustin Poirier, another fan favorite, has officially started camp for what could be the final chapter of his legendary career. While fight fans await word on Conor McGregor‘s comeback to MMA, the Irishman continues to make headlines—this time on the soccer pitch rather than in the Octagon. Hyped up? So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of MMA through our news roundup!
Ilia Topuria shares training clip ahead of Charles Oliveira fight
Ilia Topuria is all business as he prepares for the biggest bout of his career. The undefeated phenom came to Instagram to post a brief reel of himself jumping rope, with the message, “¿Entrenas hoy? ~Training today?” During the video, Topuria says in Spanish, “Monday, 8 a.m. Here we are, giving it as always.” It’s a clear message: training is in full swing, and Topuria’s laser concentration is still intact.
‘El Matador’ is all geared up to headline UFC 317 on June 28th, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as he desperately seeks the vacant UFC lightweight title. However, Oliveira, famed for his quick submissions and championship history, seems unfazed by the rising star.
MMA: UFC Fight Night-Herbert vs Topuria, Mar 19, 2022 London, UK Ilia Topuria blue gloves defeats Jai Herbert red gloves during UFC Fight Night at O2 Arena. Mandatory Credit: Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports, 19.03.2022 21:33:51, 17930803, UFC Fight Night, MMA PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xPerxHaljestamx 17930803
Speaking to Full Violence, he boldly claimed, “It’s a great fight; he’s a great fighter… but I don’t need to prove anything to anyone about who I am. I’m going to knock this guy out. That’s for real.” Time will tell whether it’s bravado or foresight, but one thing is certain: UFC 317 is a must-see event.
Dustin Poirier starts training camp for his last dance
Dustin Poirier has officially begun training for what he calls the final chapter of his fighting career. The Louisiana native will go one-on-one against Max Holloway in a trilogy fight at UFC 318 on July 19, 2025, in New Orleans. But this isn’t just any fight; it’s for the coveted BMF title, and it also signals Poirier’s retirement from the sport. The stakes could hardly be higher.
‘The Diamond’ has regarded this camp as one of the most emotional and significant experiences of his life. He’s doubling down on improving every facet of his game, saying he’s more focused than ever. He also expressed gratitude for the love and support he has received from his instructors, sponsors, and fans.
MMA: UFC 291 – Poirier vs Gaethje Jul 29, 2023 Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Dustin Poirier red gloves fights Justin Gaethje blue gloves during UFC 291 at Delta Center. Salt Lake City Delta Center Utah USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xJeffxSwingerx 20230729_szo_si8_0355
“This is the biggest fight of my life,” he stated, and he clearly wants to win. For those who have followed him through his fights and successes, UFC 318 may be the final chance to see ‘The Diamond’ shine. But while fans will have to wait to see that, they can surely witness Conor McGregor achieve a rare feat for MMA stars.
Conor McGregor celebrates a major win outside the Octagon
While the MMA world speculates about Conor McGregor‘s fighting future, the former two-division UFC champion recently secured a different kind of victory—on the soccer field. McGregor, a longtime Manchester United fan and keen soccer player, dressed up for Black Forge FC, the team he funds and plays for, which is named after his famous Dublin pub.
And surprise, surprise, ‘The Notorious’ and Black Forge FC won the United Churches Football League Premier Division title with a hard-fought 4-3 victory over Mountview CFC this weekend. The Irishman didn’t spend any time celebrating. “Elated and exhausted!” McGregor posted on X. “Won a real tough league. Winning the league is always the major statement for a team to make! Very impressed and proud!”
He concluded his celebration with a shoutout to the squad and pub: “BLACK FORGE F.C. UCFL PREMIER DIVISION CHAMPIONS.” WHAT A TEAM; WHAT A BOOZER!” Though his fighting future is unknown, Conor McGregor stays active, competitive, and, as usual, a headline-grabbing magnet.
Well, that concludes today’s MMA news roundup! What did you think of Ilia Topuria’s calm confidence, Poirier’s emotional farewell run, and McGregor’s soccer success? Let us know in the comments below.
The post MMA News Roundup- Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira Fight Update; Dustin Poirier Starts UFC 318 Camp; Conor McGregor Celebrates Soccer Win appeared first on EssentiallySports.
