Ilia Topuria delivered a spectacular performance in the main event of UFC 317, securing a stunning first-round knockout victory over Charles Oliveira to claim the vacant lightweight championship. The undefeated fighter, known as “El Matador,” continued his dominant run with this impressive finish.
Immediately following his win, Topuria was involved in a heated confrontation inside the octagon with fellow lightweight Paddy Pimblett. The verbal exchange quickly escalated, resulting in Topuria physically shoving Pimblett before security personnel intervened to separate the two rivals.
UFC President Dana White commented on the incident afterwards, expressing his displeasure with Pimblett being in the octagon, stating it should not have happened and that he would not have allowed it if he had been present.
Topuria`s knockout victory marks his ascent to champion status and makes him one of the most talked-about fighters in the sport. He has now defeated a lineup of elite opponents, including past champions.
Co-Main Event: Pantoja Submits Kara-France
In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja successfully defended his men`s flyweight title against Kai Kara-France. Pantoja showcased a dominant grappling display throughout the fight, ultimately securing a submission victory via rear-naked choke in the third round.
The champion controlled the pace from the start, securing takedowns and maintaining control on the ground in the opening rounds before finding the fight-ending submission in the third.
Featured Bout: Van Wins Thriller Against Royval
Earlier on the card, Joshua Van emerged victorious in a thrilling flyweight battle against former title challenger Brandon Royval, winning by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27). The fight was a back-and-forth war, highlighted by a knockdown scored by Van in the first round.
Both fighters exchanged heavy shots throughout the three rounds, pushing a high pace that earned praise from fans and commentators. Dana White suggested the winner of this exciting matchup could be next in line to challenge for Pantoja`s flyweight belt.
