Ilia Topuria fulfilled his promise of a first-round knockout against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, drawing comparisons to Muhammad Ali and establishing himself as a rising star in the UFC.
It’s always tricky comparing any combat sports athlete to a legend like Muhammad Ali. Yet, Dana White couldn’t help but think of Ali after Ilia Topuria delivered on his promise at UFC 317.
Before his showdown with Charles Oliveira, Topuria predicted a vicious first-round knockout to claim the vacant lightweight title. And that’s exactly what he did. A massive right hook took out Oliveira, and a left hand sealed the deal.
Topuria was already a rising star after defeating featherweight legends like Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Even White was stunned by his swift victory over Oliveira in under five minutes.
“If you look at what he’s accomplished, tonight was his big coming-out party,” White said at the post-fight press conference. “Moved up to win another title in spectacular fashion.”
“Like some Ali stuff, saying ‘I’m going to knock him out in the first round,’ and he did,” White added. “We have a star on our hands.”
Even before this win, Topuria was on track to become the new face of the UFC. The promotion needed a fresh star with past icons like Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey gone.
The UFC continues to rake in massive revenue, and with a new broadcast deal on the horizon, 2026 looks promising. Topuria’s undefeated record and fan-friendly style make him a marketable champion.
“He did exactly what he said he’s going to do,” White marveled. “He is a complete fighter. Standup, ground, grappling—everything. This kid’s a star.”
“There’s no doubt about it,” White continued. “The energy in the building tonight was electric. To predict and then execute in that fashion is impressive.”