Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317

Ilia Topuria severely knocked out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to claim the UFC lightweight division championship belt.

Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira faced each other in the evening fight of the UFC 317 gala. At stake in the clash between the Georgian and the Brazilian was the lightweight title. The UFC belt was previously vacated by Islam Makhachev, who decided to move up a division.

Ilia Topuria was a huge favorite for the fight against the experienced Brazilian. Bookmakers, fans and MMA experts alike pointed to the fighter stationed in Spain as the one who would end the fight with his hands raised in a gesture of triumph.

Charles Oliveira quickly entered the clinch and attempted to take the fight to the mat. However, it was Ilia Topuria who hit back, found himself on top and worked with punches. The Brazilian moved for the leg and first attempted to drive in a twist, and when Topuria yanked the leg Oliveira stayed on the mat. Back to the standup where, after a brief stoppage, the Georgian hit a quick right-left punch combination and sent the Brazilian to the boards. Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira hard and became the new UFC lightweight champion.

After the fight, Paddy Pimblett, who will be the next contender for the lightweight division championship belt, checked into the octagon. The fighters faced each other, made a bit of a scolding, and then a push-and-pull ensued between them.