UFC 317 in Jeopardy: Who Will Save the Main Event?
International Fight Week is always a time when the UFC looks to deliver some of the biggest and most exciting matchups of the year. It’s a week-long celebration aimed at connecting with fans and promoting the brand with a stacked fight card. Last year, the plan was to feature Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated return against Michael Chandler. That fight fell through early on, forcing the promotion to pivot to a rematch between Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka.
This year, UFC 317 has generated plenty of buzz with rumored fights, but now many of those matchups are looking increasingly unlikely. One early hope was a showdown between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall, but that lost steam, especially with Jon stating he prefers a return later this year. Then came speculation of a potential super fight between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev, with Topuria moving up to Lightweight. However, Islam’s camp has expressed disinterest, and he’s reportedly looking to move up a weight class himself. The most promising main event possibility was a Middleweight Title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis. Both fighters were willing to headline UFC 317—until recently, when it was announced that Du Plessis would be sidelined due to injury. Now, fans are wondering whether UFC 317 might fall short of expectations. Fortunately, there’s still time for the promotion to rally and book a main event that keeps the card exciting. Here are three potential matchups that could save UFC 317.
Charles Oliveira vs. Ilia Topuria
With the Welterweight title fight scheduled for UFC 315 and Islam Makhachev eyeing a move to Welterweight, the Lightweight Division may soon be left without a champion. If Islam vacates the belt, a high-stakes showdown between former Featherweight Ilia Topuria and former Lightweight Champ Charles Oliveira would be a blockbuster option. Both men are coming off strong wins and are known for their finishing ability. Ilia possesses elite knockout power and striking, while Charles is considered one of the most dangerous submission artists in UFC history. Both fighters also bring star power and personality, making this a highly marketable fight for the UFC.
Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev II
A Light Heavyweight Title rematch between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev could also be a strong main event. Their recent fight at UFC 313 ended in a close decision for Ankalaev, and both men have suggested a rematch is inevitable. While a quick turnaround might be difficult, Pereira has a reputation for staying active and accepting fights on short notice. If the UFC offers the right incentive, Ankalaev could be convinced to do the same. Given how close and competitive their last fight was, fans would be eager for a sequel.
Alexander Volkanovski vs. Movsar Evloev
This one is more of a long shot, but it’s still on the table. Despite just recently fighting Diego Lopes, Alexander Volkanovski has hinted that he’s open to a quick return. If the UFC makes the right offer, there might be enough time for a proper training camp. Movsar Evloev remains undefeated and has been waiting for a high-profile opportunity. While he may not be the most marketable contender, the stylistic matchup with Volkanovski is intriguing and could carry the card if promoted correctly.
Conclusion
UFC 317 needs a compelling main event—and fast. With several superstar fights falling through, the promotion may once again have to settle for a solid, but not spectacular, championship headliner—much like last year. There’s still hope, though. Whether it’s Topuria vs. Oliveira, a Pereira rematch, or a surprise Volkanovski booking, there are plenty of exciting options that could deliver for fans. On top of that, Alexandre Pantoja is already set to defend his Flyweight Title against Kai Kara-France, and there are rumors of a potential Middleweight Interim Title bout. Multiple Middleweights have called Khamzat out already, including Caio Borralho and Nassourdine Imavov. The pressure is on, and the UFC has the pieces to make UFC 317 a must-watch event. The only question is: can they put it all together in time?
