LAS VEGAS – Ilia Topuria kept his promise. The Spanish fighter not only predicted a victory over Charles Oliveira, but also anticipated the way it would happen, leaving everyone surprised by the forcefulness of the result. Topuria, with an undefeated record of 17-0, became the tenth two-division champion in UFC history by knocking out Oliveira in the first round, exactly at 2 minutes and 27 seconds. A precise right hook to Oliveira’s chin was the beginning of the end, followed by a left hook that sealed the victory. The initial impact had already weakened Oliveira, making the second blow the perfect finishing touch. This achievement highlights Topuria even more, as he is the first champion in UFC history to conquer multiple titles while maintaining his undefeated record.
After the victory, the UFC was quick to mention Paddy Pimblett, number 8 in the lightweight rankings. Pimblett, present at the T-Mobile Arena, has a history with Topuria dating back to 2021, when the Spaniard was offended by Pimblett’s comments about the 2008 Russo-Georgian war. Pimblett even entered the cage to confront Topuria, who had expressed his desire to face him in his first title defense, preferably in Las Vegas.“I already said it,” Topuria affirmed, who even celebrated an anticipated dinner on Friday in anticipation of the victory. “I represent the new era of mixed martial arts. This is the next level of the game.”
Ilia Topuria
