Payton Talbott Faces Tough Opponent Felipe Lima at UFC 317

Las Vegas, Nevada – Payton Talbott is set to face Felipe Lima in a highly anticipated fight this weekend at UFC 317, scheduled for June 28, 2025, inside T-Mobile Arena. Talbott, who is coming off a recent fight, was expected to have a less formidable opponent. However, the UFC matched him with Lima, a rising star known for his dominance in the Octagon.

Talbott expressed that the UFC had difficulties finding an alternative opponent on short notice. “I don’t think they really wanted to matchmake us,” he told reporters at the UFC 317 media day. “If I had control over when I fight, where it is, who it is, and could have everything be super certain, that would be a perfect world, but I’m happy to fight this guy. This is a tough fight for me, and that’s what I’m here to do.”

He also emphasized the nature of competitive fighting. “I mean, this is fighting. This isn’t a ‘build-the-star’ business,” Talbott added. He remains confident about the matchup and believes that both fighters are ready to give it their all. “I just think it’s going to be a good fight,” he said. “We’re both going to show up to bang. I think he’s legit, durable, and super well-rounded. I think it’s a really good fight with a high-level opponent.”

Currently, Talbott is a +154 betting underdog, reflecting the challenging nature of this fight. UFC 317 also features a championship doubleheader, including a main event where former Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria will face Charles Oliveira in a high-stakes five-round showdown. The co-main event will see Flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defend his title against No. 4-seeded contender Kai Kara-France.

Fans can expect a thrilling night, with the early fights beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET and the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET. Don’t miss the live round-by-round coverage of the entire event.