UFC 317: Topuria Knocks Out Oliveira in First Round to Win Lightweight Title

Ilia Topuria claimed a dominant victory at UFC 317, knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round to become the new lightweight champion. The Georgian-Spanish fighter delivered on his promise to finish the bout early, confirming his status as the pre-fight favourite.

Topuria Applies Pressure from the Start

Both fighters took a measured stance as the fight began, maintaining a mid-range distance. Within the first minute, Topuria began asserting his dominance, pushing the fight towards grappling exchanges. Oliveira kept his composure, but the pressure from Topuria quickly became overwhelming.

Second and Third Minutes: Topuria Takes Control

By the second minute, Oliveira sustained a cut—likely caused by a powerful strike. Topuria maintained a high pace and continued to dictate the tempo of the fight. In the third minute, he landed two clean shots to Oliveira’s head. Although the Brazilian remained on his feet, the pressure was mounting.

The Knockout Blow

In the fourth minute, Topuria landed a devastating punch that sent Oliveira to the canvas. Though Oliveira managed to get back on his feet, a second, even cleaner strike followed shortly after, sending him into a deep knockdown. The referee stepped in, and Topuria secured a convincing first-round victory—just as he had vowed.

Aftermath

Ilia Topuria celebrated a first-round knockout victory, capturing the UFC lightweight belt.
Charles Oliveira showed resilience, but ultimately could not match the precision and power of the new champion.