Many observers, according to some, seem to overlook a significant aspect of UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria`s presence in the sport.
Following Islam Makhachev`s decision to vacate his lightweight belt and move to welterweight, Ilia Topuria, the highly-touted Spanish fighter, stepped up. While a fight against Makhachev was a desired matchup, Topuria instead faced and defeated former champion Charles Oliveira via knockout in the main event of UFC 317, claiming his second divisional title.
This win marked Topuria`s third consecutive knockout victory. His impressive streak includes back-to-back stoppage wins over featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski and BMF champion Max Holloway. The undefeated fighter, holding a 17-0 record, had confidently predicted first-round finishes against all three popular opponents, a prediction he executed perfectly against Oliveira.
In the wake of these dominant performances, Topuria has drawn comparisons to iconic figures. His incredible knockout power has led some to liken him to the legendary boxer Mike Tyson, while his demeanor and self-belief have brought comparisons to boxing icon Muhammad Ali.
UFC Legend Rampage Jackson Sees Muhammad Ali-Like Mentality in Topuria
Ilia Topuria is one of only ten fighters in UFC history to simultaneously hold titles in two different weight classes. Notably, he stands alone as the only fighter to achieve this remarkable feat while maintaining an undefeated record.
Beyond his heavy hands, Topuria also ascended past Makhachev to claim the top spot in the UFC`s pound-for-pound rankings.
Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson recently shared his thoughts on Topuria. Jackson admitted he wasn`t initially aware of Topuria`s perfect record but recognized a unique quality that set the Spaniard apart from other UFC fighters.
Appearing on the Jaxxon Podcast, Jackson specifically highlighted Topuria`s mental fortitude, which he believes is often underestimated.
Man, I haven’t seen many fighters like that. The part about him that a lot of people [are] overlooking: his mentality.
Jackson drew a parallel to the legendary Muhammad Ali.
He’s like how Muhammad Ali was calling out which rounds he was knocking people out in and stuff like that.
He even went further, likening Topuria to a character from a famous movie.
He’s the new Neo. I’m telling you. He knows something that I wish that I would’ve been on, man. He knows it.
Chael Sonnen Praises Ilia Topuria`s `Unspeakable Power,` Reminiscent of Mike Tyson
Topuria`s devastating knockout power has undeniably been a major factor in his success inside the UFC Octagon.
At UFC 317, `El Matador` finished Charles Oliveira with a combination of punches. A powerful right hook initially dropped Oliveira, with subsequent strikes securing the victory.
Through his recent wins, Topuria delivered Alexander Volkanovski his first knockout defeat in the featherweight division, handed Max Holloway the first knockout loss of his entire career, and inflicted arguably the most definitive loss in Charles Oliveira`s extensive 47-fight history.
Speaking on the UFC 317 post-show, three-time UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen analyzed Topuria`s performance against Oliveira. He noted that the victory wasn`t necessarily due to displaying new or complex techniques.
There was no real new skills… I’ve seen jabs and crosses. I’ve seen hooks. It just turns out there is a power that is almost unspeakable.
Sonnen went on to compare this rare power to a boxing icon.
I got to go back to ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson quite frankly when I’ve seen a guy that can step in regardless of opponent regardless of age, regardless of experience and put them down with one punch…
