Ilia Topuria‘s impressive performances and confident demeanor, including a recent knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, have sparked debate about his status as the top pound-for-pound fighter, drawing comparisons to other MMA greats and leaving the community, including commentator Jon Anik, in awe.
Ilia Topuria’s performances in the octagon have been nothing short of spectacular. His confidence and demeanor have left the MMA community, including UFC commentator Jon Anik, in awe.
Topuria clinched his second divisional title with a stunning knockout of former champ Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Anik, alongside Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier, called the action in Las Vegas.
Before the fight, Topuria acted as though he’d already won, even celebrating the night before. Anik is amazed by Topuria’s approach and presence.
“It’s nuts, like nothing I’ve seen before,” Anik shared with MMA Fighting. He described Topuria as calm, cool, and collected, yet beyond those words.
Anik drew parallels to Conor McGregor, noting Topuria’s unique post-victory demeanor. “He doesn’t even jump on the cage,” Anik said, highlighting Topuria’s confidence.
“We used to say about Floyd Mayweather, 50-0 is 50-0,” Anik continued. Topuria’s ability to perform consistently is almost like bending time.
Topuria’s current three-fight streak is among the best in UFC history. He knocked out Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title and then stopped Max Holloway and Oliveira.
The arena buzzed with energy after the knockout. While fans erupted, fighters remained stoic, stunned by Topuria’s performance.
Anik wasn’t surprised by this reaction from Topuria’s peers. “Imagine being Islam Makhachev, Justin Gaethje, or Dustin Poirier watching that,” he said.
He emphasized Oliveira’s ongoing hunger and how Topuria’s peers are taking notice. “Ilia Topuria, man, he’s one of one,” Anik remarked.
The big debate post-UFC 317 is whether Topuria is now the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, surpassing Islam Makhachev, who moved to welterweight.
Anik acknowledges the debate’s subjective nature but mentions a third contender. “It’s hard to lose your number one slot if you’re Islam Makhachev,” he said.
He highlighted the achievements of Topuria and Merab Dvalishvili. “It’s a three-headed monster,” Anik concluded, praising their dominance and utility.