Ilia Topuria Rises to No. 1 Pound-for-Pound After Stunning Knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317

By Ali Hammad July 04, 2025 09:31

Ilia Topuria’s meteoric rise in the UFC reached a new pinnacle on June 28, 2025, when he delivered a thunderous first-round knockout of former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. The victory not only crowned Topuria as the new UFC Lightweight Champion but also vaulted him to the top of the pound-for-pound rankings, signaling the arrival of a new era in mixed martial arts.

The event, held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas during the UFC’s International Fight Week, featured a highly anticipated main event for the vacant lightweight title. Islam Makhachev had vacated the belt to pursue a welterweight title, setting the stage for Topuria a dominant featherweight champion who had recently moved up a weight class to challenge Oliveira, a seasoned veteran and one of the most prolific finishers in UFC history.

From the opening bell, Topuria showcased a blend of precision striking and relentless pressure. After a brief feeling-out period, he landed a devastating straight right hand followed by a left hook that sent Oliveira crashing to the canvas just 2 minutes and 27 seconds into the fight. The knockout was brutal and decisive, leaving no doubt about Topuria’s legitimacy as a two-division champion.

Commentators and analysts were quick to praise the performance. One UFC analyst remarked, “Topuria’s stand-up is beautiful, his ground game is elite, and tonight he proved he can finish the best in the world. This kid is a star in the making.” The victory extended Topuria’s undefeated streak and marked his first title in the lightweight division, adding to the featherweight belt he relinquished earlier this year.

The win also had ripple effects beyond the cage. Canadian music superstar Drake, who had placed a hefty $200,000 bet on Oliveira to reclaim the lightweight crown, was among those stunned by the upset. The knockout spoiled Drake’s wager, which would have paid out $880,000 had Oliveira prevailed. This high-profile bet underscored the magnitude of Topuria’s upset and the shifting landscape of the division.

Following the fight, Topuria expressed humility and confidence, stating, “I respect Charles Oliveira he’s a legend in this sport. But I came here to prove I belong at the top. This is just the beginning.” His composure and poise in the post-fight interview reflected a maturity beyond his years.

Topuria’s rise to the No. 1 pound-for-pound spot is a testament to his skill set and the dominance he has displayed across two weight classes. Analysts have noted his rare combination of power, technique, and fight IQ, which sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. His knockout of Oliveira, a fighter known for his resilience and finishing ability, was particularly impressive given the stakes and the caliber of opposition.

UFC President Dana White lauded the new champion, saying, “Ilia Topuria is the real deal. He’s got the talent, the heart, and the work ethic to be one of the greats. Tonight, he showed the world that the lightweight division has a new king.”

With his place atop the pound-for-pound rankings secured, all eyes now turn to Topuria’s next moves. Potential superfights with other elite lightweights and featherweights loom on the horizon, promising thrilling matchups for fight fans worldwide.

Ilia Topuria’s stunning knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 was more than just a title win it was a statement. The young champion’s ascent to the pinnacle of MMA heralds a new chapter in the sport, one defined by his explosive style and unyielding ambition.