Ilia Topuria became the 10th two-division UFC champion by defeating Charles Oliveira for the lightweight title at UFC 317, while Alexandre Pantoja defended his flyweight title against Kai Kara-France, sparking discussions about potential future matchups and the legacy of both fighters.
Sure, let’s break this down into more dynamic and engaging paragraphs:
The lightweight champ has a name, and it’s Ilia Topuria. On Saturday, Topuria became the 10th two-division champ in UFC history by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. People are already buzzing about his future.
Before that, Alexandre Pantoja defended his flyweight title with a submission win over Kai Kara-France. This marks his fourth consecutive title defense, securing his spot as the second-greatest flyweight. When Demetrious Johnson is number one, second place ain’t too shabby.
Plenty to discuss! Let’s dive into your questions.
Ilia Topuria’s Generational Run
How much of a threat is Ilia’s 3KO streak to Jon Jones‘ GOAT status? Well, first, Jon Jones isn’t literally a GOAT. I’ve talked to farmers. But seriously, Jones is still in the conversation for MMA’s greatest, though we shouldn’t just assume that.
Now, about Topuria. He doesn’t pose a massive threat to the GOAT crown yet. Greatness in MMA is built over time, not just a few wins. Topuria is on the right path, but it’s a long journey. He’s got the talent and timing, but he still has to walk the walk.
It’ll be exciting to watch him try.
Three-Division Champion?
Does Topuria have the best chance to become a triple champ? Maybe in terms of opportunity, but claiming the welterweight title seems unlikely. He looked like a featherweight on Saturday, and while he can manage at lightweight, 170 might be a stretch.
If Islam Makhachev wins the welterweight belt and the UFC makes that fight, maybe he could KO Islam. But I’ll believe it when I see it. Personally, I’d bet on Alex Pereira. He’s already got two belts, and heavyweight’s a mess. "Poatan" could pull it off.
Lightweight Title Picture
Will the impromptu face-off with Paddy Pimblett force the UFC to make that fight? Yes. They’re following the money, and Topuria vs. Pimblett is a big draw.
I’m a huge Justin Gaethje fan, but he lost last year. It’s not a crime if he gets passed over. Arman Tsarukyan is the top contender but needs a win after UFC 311. This opens the door for Pimblett.
Does Pimblett deserve it? No, but that’s not the point. The matchup has heat, and it’s a big fight. While I favor Topuria, I’m curious to see him against a big lightweight with a solid chin. Book it.
Upset the Apple Cart
Among Paddy, Arman, and Gaethje, Arman has the best chance against Ilia, right? Certainly. Arman Tsarukyan is a formidable fighter, though I’d still pick Topuria.
Pimblett’s next best. He’s huge and can take a punch, which helps against Topuria. Gaethje, though beloved, is past his prime. He’s elite but likely to get knocked out at this stage.
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Demetrious Johnson
How much would you pay for Prime DJ vs. this Pantoja? $200. Maybe more. DJ is a legend, and Pantoja’s the best flyweight of his generation. They’d match up intriguingly—DJ’s cerebral style against Pantoja’s relentless drive. Sign me up.
What’s the chance of Josh Van beating Pantoja? Joshua Van is making waves. After a tough win over Brandon Royval, he’s the top flyweight contender. But against Pantoja? Not great, at least not yet.
Van’s talented but still developing. At 23, he’s learning on the job. He adapted well against Royval, but it’s raw. In a few years, though, things might change. Pantoja’s reign won’t last forever, and Van’s improving. He’ll likely hold the belt someday.
Pour One Out for Charles Oliveira
Greater career: Charles Oliveira or Shogun Rua? Tough question. Oliveira’s an All-Time Great but out of the title picture. Shogun Rua edges it, though.
Oliveira’s career resurgence at lightweight was spectacular. Seven finishes, then victories over big names. But his losses—mostly stoppages—are a sticking point. Shogun’s losses came later, after peak years. His 2005 was legendary, and he maintained high performance for years.
Both are in the Top 50 greatest fighters, maybe even Top 25.
Thanks for reading! Got burning questions about combat sports? Tweet me @JedKMeshew. See y’all next week!