Not Strength – This Weakness is What Made Oliveira Fall Against Topuria

On a night that will be etched into the history of the UFC, Ilia Topuria delivered the most complete and calculated performance of his career—decimating Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 317 to become the new UFC lightweight world champion.

But behind the brutal knockout and thunderous cheers was something far more telling: Topuria knew exactly what he needed to do. From the moment the fight was confirmed, the Spanish-Georgian star didn’t just prepare physically—he created a blueprint for destruction that exposed every weakness Oliveira possessed.

“He Can’t Fight Going Backwards” – Topuria’s Key Observation

In the weeks leading up to the fight, Ilia Topuria obsessively studied Charles Oliveira’s past performances. While many fighters watch film for patterns or tendencies, Topuria took it to another level—breaking down how Oliveira moved, responded to pressure, and crumbled under certain types of attacks.

What did he find?

“He doesn’t even know how to fight going backward,” Topuria revealed during his appearance on UFC’s About Last Fight.

This wasn’t just a casual observation. It was the core principle that shaped Topuria’s entire game plan. Oliveira, historically known for charging forward and suffocating opponents with relentless aggression, had rarely been forced into retreat. And when he was, things got ugly.

Topuria recognized a truth others missed: make Oliveira retreat, and his offense vanishes.

Calculated Chaos: The Execution at UFC 317

From the opening seconds of the fight, Topuria controlled the pace. He didn’t throw wild shots. He didn’t chase a highlight. He simply walked Oliveira down—forcing the Brazilian icon into the unfamiliar role of a counter-striker.

And just as Topuria predicted, Oliveira struggled to adjust.

Every jab from Topuria backed Oliveira up. Every feint made him hesitate. Every overhand right was a bullet with intent. As the former champion retreated, his guard slipped, his reactions slowed, and his legendary submission threat became a non-factor.

By the end of the first round, the writing was on the wall. In the second, Topuria unleashed a crisp right hand that flattened Oliveira—a chilling reminder that his hands are as deadly as his fight IQ.

Bisping: “Topuria Might Be The New GOAT”

In the aftermath of the fight, former middleweight champion and UFC commentator Michael Bisping didn’t hold back his praise.

“We’re looking at a potential new GOAT,” Bisping said. “He didn’t just beat Charles Oliveira—he dismantled him with a level of precision we rarely see.”

And he wasn’t wrong.

This wasn’t just a victory. It was a complete takeover. Oliveira came into the bout as one of the most decorated lightweights in UFC history—a former champion with wins over Justin Gaethje, Michael Chandler, Tony Ferguson, and Dustin Poirier. But against Topuria, he looked lost.

That’s not to discredit Oliveira’s greatness—it’s to highlight Topuria’s evolution into a next-generation killer.

Not Just Power: Topuria’s Fight IQ Is His Greatest Weapon

Much has been made about Topuria’s devastating punching power, and it’s true—his hands have left a trail of chaos across the featherweight and lightweight divisions. But what makes him truly frightening is his calculated approach to violence.

He doesn’t rely on instincts. He builds traps, predicts reactions, and controls geography inside the Octagon like a grandmaster moving chess pieces.

In this fight, the trap was simple but brilliant: make Oliveira panic by putting him in reverse, then capitalize on his breakdowns.

Topuria didn’t chase the knockout. He orchestrated it.

Studying Oliveira: “I Knew He Was in Trouble”

Speaking to reporters after the fight, Topuria explained how early study gave him the edge:

“When I got the confirmation for the fight, I watched every one of his fights. He’s a great fighter, but once I saw how he reacts under pressure, I knew he was in trouble. He only moves forward. He can’t defend if you walk him down.”

This kind of preparation is rare in MMA. Many fighters focus on cardio, camp tactics, and standard drills. Topuria, by contrast, prepares like a strategist—dissecting opponents the way a sniper studies wind conditions before taking the shot.

That mindset paid off at UFC 317—and it may be the key to a long reign.

A New Lightweight Era Has Begun

With this win, Ilia Topuria becomes the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, marking the beginning of a potential dynasty.

He’s now undefeated, holds wins over elite competition, and has the tools to beat any style—wrestlers, strikers, or submission experts. And while many champions struggle to adapt post-title, Topuria looks more focused than ever.

His evolution from raw prospect to elite champion has been fast, but not reckless. Every fight, he’s shown growth. Every camp, he’s added layers. And now, with the belt around his waist, he’s already talking about what’s next.

“There’s still so much I want to do,” Topuria said. “This is just the beginning.”

What’s Next for Topuria? A Queue of Dangerous Challengers

With Charles Oliveira dispatched, Ilia Topuria’s next title defense is already a hot topic.

Possible contenders include:

• Islam Makhachev – Should he decide to move up from lightweight or if a champ-vs-champ bout is arranged.

• Justin Gaethje – Always dangerous, always violent.

• Arman Tsarukyan – Rising quickly, with elite wrestling.

• Dustin Poirier – A fan-favorite who could pose real problems if motivated for one last run.

But the bigger question isn’t “who will challenge Topuria?”

It’s: who can actually beat him?

Right now, few fighters in the UFC appear to have the combination of durability, pressure handling, and technical skill needed to stand toe-to-toe with this version of Ilia Topuria.

El Matador: A Symbol of Precision and Pain

Topuria’s nickname, “El Matador,” has never felt more appropriate.

He doesn’t fight with reckless abandon. He doesn’t swing wildly or leave himself open. He fights like a bullfighter—measured, calculating, and merciless. He avoids danger, then punishes errors with precision.

In this sense, Charles Oliveira wasn’t just beaten—he was out-thought, out-timed, and outclassed.

And as the crowd roared for their new champion, Topuria barely celebrated. He didn’t need to. The work was done. The statement was made. And the rest of the division heard it loud and clear.

Final Thoughts: Topuria Isn’t Just a Champion—He’s a Problem

The UFC lightweight division is the most stacked in MMA. For years, names like Khabib, Oliveira, Poirier, and Gaethje dominated the landscape. Now, there’s a new sheriff in town—and his name is Ilia Topuria.

With unmatched power, a sharp mind, and unbreakable confidence, Topuria isn’t just holding the belt—he’s already changing the way people look at fighting.

By exposing Oliveira’s inability to fight backwards, he’s added a chapter to the tactical playbook of MMA. By staying humble and focused, he’s earning the respect of fans and veterans alike. And by knocking out legends, he’s building a legacy that might one day land him in the GOAT conversation.

One thing is clear: Ilia Topuria is no longer chasing greatness. He’s dictating it.