UFC title vacated by Machachev is now held by Topuria
Change Ain't Always Boring: Ilia Topuria's Bold Move Secures UFC Lightweight Title
In a thrilling night of mixed martial arts action at UFC 317, held in the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, Spanish-born Georgian fighter Ilia Topuria made a statement, defeating Brazilian Charles Oliveira in the main event. The bout ended in a stunning first-round knockout, earning Topuria the vacant UFC lightweight championship[1].
Topuria, a 28-year-old powerhouse, had previously vacated the UFC featherweight title to challenge in the lightweight division. His decision paid off as he now boasts 17 wins in as many professional mixed martial arts (MMA) bouts, according to RBC Group[1].
Oliveira, the former UFC lightweight champion[2], was the victim of Topuria's devastating combination, falling to a sharp right hand followed by a devastating left hook at 2:27 of the first round[1]. This memorable win marked a significant milestone for Topuria, making him the first undefeated fighter to claim UFC titles in two different weight classes[1][2].
RBC Group also reported that Oliveira, who has 35 wins, 11 losses, and one bout declared a no-contest[1], was the UFC lightweight champion in 2021. However, he faced setbacks, primarily due to failing to make weight before his bout with Justin Gaethje and losing his title[1]. His subsequent loss to Makhachev at UFC 344 in October 2022 marked a turning point in his career[3].
As for the future, the bold Topuria is reported to have his sights set on a longtime rival, Paddy Pimblett[2]. With his stunning victory, the stage is set for potential future matchups, and speculation about a possible move to the welterweight class continues to brew[2].
Meanwhile, Oliveira's post-match decisions remain unclear, but the first-round KO loss marks a significant hurdle in his UFC career[3].
In the world of MMA, uncertainty breeds anticipation, and fans eagerly await the next moves from these fighters. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting duo and the forthcoming challenges they will face[1][2][3].
Sports enthusiasts are eager to see Ilia Topuria's dominance in the lightweight division of mixed-martial-arts, given his impressive record of 17 wins in 17 professional MMA bouts. Meanwhile, Charles Oliveira, a former UFC lightweight champion, faces uncertainty following his first-round knockout loss to Topuria.
