Sun Jun 29 06:00:35 UTC 2025: ## Topuria KOs Oliveira in First Round to Claim Lightweight Title at UFC 317
**LAS VEGAS, NV** – Ilia Topuria delivered on his promise in stunning fashion at UFC 317 on Saturday night, knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round to become the new UFC Lightweight Champion. In a dominant performance, Topuria, making his debut in the 155-pound division, lived up to pre-fight predictions by ending the fight early.
Topuria, who vacated his featherweight title to move up in weight after Islam Makhachev’s departure, faced a formidable challenge in former champion Oliveira. Despite Oliveira’s initial experience on the mat, Topuria disengaged to bring the fight back to its feet, capitalizing on his striking power to secure the victory.
A crushing right hand followed by a left hook sent Oliveira crashing to the canvas, securing the win for Topuria just minutes into the fight. “I already said it – I represent the new generation of the mixed martial arts,” Topuria declared after his victory. “This is the next level of the game. This is the next thing, and this is what I represent.”
In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja successfully defended his flyweight title, submitting Kai Kara-France via rear-naked choke in the third round. Pantoja dominated the fight before securing the finish.
The main card also saw Joshua Van defeat Brandon Royval by unanimous decision at flyweight, Beneil Dariush bested Renato Moicano via unanimous decision in their lightweight bout, and Payton Talbott secured a unanimous decision victory over Felipe Lima at bantamweight.
First Piper 