Ilia Topuria’s spectacular first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts world. The Spanish fighter’s devastating right hand not only earned him the vacant UFC lightweight title but also drew praise from former double champion Conor McGregor. This unexpected reaction from McGregor marks a surprising shift in their relationship, given their previous hostile exchanges.
Topuria joins elite company with historic UFC title victory
On June 29, 2025, Ilia “El Matador” Topuria made history at UFC 317 when he knocked out Charles Oliveira with a thunderous right hand in the first round. This victory propelled Topuria into an exclusive club of two-division champions in UFC history. He becomes just the tenth fighter to accomplish this remarkable feat.
The Spanish knockout artist’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Following Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the 155-pound title, the UFC arranged for Topuria to face the legendary Oliveira for the vacant championship. The result was a statement victory that firmly establishes Topuria as one of the biggest stars in combat sports today.
Elite fighters who have captured titles in multiple UFC weight divisions include:
- Conor McGregor (Featherweight and Lightweight)
- Daniel Cormier (Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight)
- Georges St-Pierre (Welterweight and Middleweight)
- Amanda Nunes (Bantamweight and Featherweight)
- Henry Cejudo (Flyweight and Bantamweight)
What makes Topuria’s achievement particularly impressive is the dominant fashion in which he claimed the title. His knockout power has proven effective across weight classes, making him an exceptionally dangerous opponent for anyone in the lightweight division.
McGregor’s surprising reaction shows respect despite past tensions
Hours after Topuria’s victory, Conor McGregor took to social media with an unexpectedly supportive message. “Congrats on winning my old titles, Ilia!” wrote the Irish superstar, referring to the fact that he once held both the featherweight and lightweight championships.
This cordial response marks a significant shift from their previous interactions. McGregor had previously threatened to “cave Topuria’s head in” during a live stream when asked about the Spanish fighter. Topuria didn’t take the comments lightly, responding with his own promise to “F— him up” if they ever crossed paths.
McGregor’s message continued with humor regarding Topuria’s post-fight confrontation with Paddy Pimblett: “He said he gonna rest his balls on Paddy’s head too, hahah fair play. Good LW scrap that one is as well imo.” The Irishman even seemed to acknowledge Topuria’s growing star power by pondering, “UFC is back? Or still missing something?”
The former double champion also showed respect for the defeated Oliveira, writing: “Unlucky to Charles also. Styles make fights! You are a tremendous and legendary UFC fighter. Rest up.” This demonstrates McGregor’s appreciation for both competitors in what proved to be a momentous bout.
| Fighter | Current Status | Championship History |
|---|---|---|
| Ilia Topuria | Active UFC Lightweight Champion | Former Featherweight Champion |
| Charles Oliveira | Active UFC Contender | Former Lightweight Champion |
| Conor McGregor | Inactive | Former Featherweight & Lightweight Champion |
What’s next for the UFC lightweight division after Topuria’s triumph
The immediate aftermath of UFC 317 already set the stage for what could be Topuria’s first title defense. In a dramatic moment, British sensation Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett entered the octagon for an impromptu face-off with the newly crowned champion.
This potential matchup has already generated significant buzz among fight fans. McGregor himself acknowledged the appeal, calling it a “good lightweight scrap.” Topuria’s knockout power versus Pimblett’s submission skills presents a classic striker versus grappler scenario that has historically produced some of the most memorable fights in UFC history.
Beyond Pimblett, several compelling contenders await in the lightweight division:
- Islam Makhachev (if he returns to lightweight)
- Dustin Poirier
- Justin Gaethje
- Michael Chandler
McGregor’s comments about Topuria’s three consecutive knockout victories highlight why “El Matador” has become such a feared competitor. “No one can deny the knockout,” wrote McGregor, emphasizing the undeniable impact of Topuria’s finishing ability.
The evolving landscape of UFC star power
McGregor’s question – “UFC is back? Or still missing something?” – touches on a broader conversation about star power in the promotion. With his charisma, finishing ability, and now dual-championship status, Topuria seems poised to become the next major drawing card for the UFC.
The Spanish fighter brings several marketable qualities to the table: devastating knockout power, an undefeated record, and the confidence to engage in the mental warfare that often drives pay-per-view sales. His confrontation with Pimblett demonstrated his understanding that championship fights sell on both athletic merit and compelling narratives.
While McGregor continues to tease a return without concrete plans, his acknowledgment of Topuria suggests a passing of the torch moment. The UFC has struggled to develop mainstream stars with McGregor’s crossover appeal, but Topuria’s spectacular performances and growing confidence could fill the void left by the Irish superstar’s extended absence.
As the UFC moves forward with Topuria as a newly minted champion, the promotion appears to have found a fighter capable of delivering both in-cage excitement and the promotional flair necessary to captivate casual fans. McGregor’s question might soon be answered definitively if Topuria continues his impressive championship reign with the same knockout power that earned him the lightweight crown at UFC 317.
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