
Charles Oliveira certainly did not achieve the outcome he desired.
At UFC 317, with the vacant lightweight championship on the line, Oliveira experienced a stunning first-round knockout defeat. Ilia Topuria landed a devastating right hook, followed by a left hand, that sent the Brazilian crashing violently to the canvas.
This marked the first time Oliveira had been finished by knockout in nearly eight years; Paul Felder had previously stopped him with elbows back in 2017. Following the event, Oliveira shared a concise statement on social media addressing his loss to Topuria.
On Instagram, Oliveira commented, “It didn`t go as planned, but I am alright. I just want to express my gratitude to everyone for their support and amazing energy. God bless you all.”
While the bout concluded before the three-minute mark, Oliveira started aggressively, immediately testing Topuria. He briefly managed to get the fight to the ground, but this success was temporary. Oliveira attempted a submission, but Topuria skillfully defended, avoiding being caught.
Once the fight returned to a standing position, Topuria`s striking and power proved overwhelming for the Brazilian.
Topuria`s lead jab was consistently effective. More significantly, after gauging Oliveira`s timing and range as the taller fighter, he patiently waited for the opportune moment to deliver the fight-ending strikes.
That moment arrived during another intense exchange. Topuria unleashed a fierce right hook that snapped Oliveira`s head, causing him to lose consciousness almost instantly. Before Oliveira even hit the mat, Topuria landed a finishing left hand for good measure.
Oliveira was unconscious before he fell to the canvas. Referee Marc Goddard promptly stepped in to stop the fight at 2:27 of the opening round.
Although it was undeniably not the result he aimed for, Oliveira remains a formidable presence near the top of the lightweight rankings. He is expected to face another significant opponent once he has healed, recovered, and is prepared to compete again.