Ilia Topuria's Dual Belt Ambition

In the latest installment of the UFC 317 Embedded Vlog Series, Episode 5, viewers get an intimate look at Ilia Topuria as he prepares for his shot at becoming a two-division champion. The former featherweight titleholder, who vacated his 145-pound belt to move up to lightweight, is seen posing for photos with two belts, symbolizing his ambition to claim the 155-pound title. This visual moment underscores his confidence and determination ahead of his clash with Charles Oliveira at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Kai Kara-France Honors His Roots

Kai Kara-France, set to challenge for the flyweight title, takes a reflective moment in the episode to connect with his Maori heritage. He shares insights into his cultural background, highlighting how it shapes his identity and fuels his drive in the octagon. This personal glimpse at around the midway point of the video adds depth to his preparation for the co-main event against champion Alexandre Pantoja.

Terrance McKinney's Lighthearted Break

Offering a lighter side of fight week, Terrance McKinney is featured enjoying a game of mini golf. This segment provides a break from the intensity of training, showcasing McKinney's personality and relaxed demeanor as he gears up for his preliminary card bout. The casual activity, captured early in the episode, contrasts with the high stakes of the upcoming event.

Tracy Cortez on Family Bonds

Tracy Cortez opens up about the significant bond she shares with her father, framing it as a source of strength in her career. During a heartfelt discussion in the video, she reflects on how this relationship influences her mindset heading into her fight on the UFC 317 card. This emotional narrative adds a personal layer to her journey as a fighter.

Niko Price at UFC BJJ Event

Niko Price is shown attending the inaugural UFC BJJ event, engaging with the grappling community during fight week. This segment highlights his involvement in the broader martial arts scene and his commitment to honing his skills outside the octagon. Captured towards the latter part of the episode, it showcases the diverse preparations fighters undertake.

Charles Oliveira's Press Conference Prep

Charles Oliveira, the former lightweight champion, encounters a minor wardrobe malfunction before the UFC 317 press conference but handles it with composure. This brief moment, featured near the end of the vlog, transitions into the intense atmosphere of the press conference where he faces off with Topuria. The exchange of words between the two fighters sets the stage for their highly anticipated main event showdown.

Press Conference Face-Offs

The episode culminates with the UFC 317 press conference, where the stars of the event come face-to-face. The tension is palpable as Topuria and Oliveira exchange words, building anticipation for their title fight. Other fighters, including Kara-France and Pantoja, also share the stage, intensifying the excitement for the June 28 event. This final segment, around the closing minutes, captures the raw energy and stakes of International Fight Week.