Looking Ahead: What Comes Next for UFC 317’s Standout Winners

UFC 317 delivered on its promise—fulfilling the hype with a lineup of thrilling bouts at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event offered multiple highlight-reel finishes, a fight that could rival any for “Fight of the Year,” and a record-breaking main event by Ilia Topuria. With the dust settling, here’s a look at what’s next for the main card victors.

Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria made history by knocking out Charles Oliveira to become the UFC’s first undefeated fighter to hold titles in two divisions. Now lightweight champion, he’s the division’s most sought-after target. Although Arman Tsarukyan seemed like the front-runner, his late withdrawal from UFC 311 and role as backup at UFC 317 may hold his title hopes in suspense. Meanwhile, a long-standing rivalry with Paddy Pimblett drew headlines—but Dana White suggested that matchup isn’t next. All signs now point to Justin Gaethje, whose March win over Rafael Fiziev and reputation for explosive bouts make him a compelling contender for Topuria’s first defense.

Alexandre Pantoja & Joshua Van

The UFC strategically placed a No. 1 contender fight just before the co-main title bout—and it delivered. Joshua Van not only put on a stellar performance against Brandon Royval, he solidified his place atop the lightweight contender ranks. In the co-main, Alexandre Pantoja claimed a fourth flyweight title defense, reinforcing his dominance in a division that still lacks clear challengers. A showdown between Pantoja and Van seems inevitable, though Van may benefit from more seasoning before heading into a title fight. Still, with both fighters shining on Saturday, a future title clash is practically guaranteed.

Beneil Dariush

Beneil Dariush overcame a rocky opening frame to earn his first win since 2022, outlasting Renato Moicano in a comeback victory. Although he hasn’t consistently beaten elite opponents, Dariush remains a resilient threat at lightweight. A matchup with fellow veteran Michael Chandler, who is recovering from a loss to Paddy Pimblett, could be a fitting next test. Both men are in need of a bounce-back fight, setting the stage for a gritty, high-stakes scrap.

Payton Talbott

Payton Talbott rebounded from his first UFC loss with a determined performance against Felipe Lima. Filling in the gaps in his game, he reminded fans and pundits alike that he belongs on the path to stardom in the bantamweight division. A matchup with former champ Cody Garbrandt, who also lost to Raoni Barcelos, could be next on the agenda. This fight would offer both men a chance to regain momentum and stake a claim in a loaded 135-pound field.

Paul Browne

Paul Browne is a professional mixed martial arts commentator, feature writer and podcaster based in Dublin, Ireland.