Context:

Ilia Topuria made a significant impact in the UFC by knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round to claim the vacant lightweight championship at UFC 317, enhancing his reputation as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters. With a decisive left hook, Topuria ended the fight at 2:27 of the opening round, fulfilling his prediction and exciting the crowd of 19,800. His victory continued his undefeated streak and made him the first fighter to hold UFC titles in two weight classes while remaining unbeaten. A confrontation with fellow lightweight Paddy Pimblett reignited their rivalry, with both exchanging words post-fight. In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja defended his flyweight title by defeating Kai Kara-France with a rear-naked choke, while Joshua Van defeated Brandon Royval in a notable featherweight bout, both showcasing impressive performances.

Dive Deeper:

• Ilia Topuria secured the vacant lightweight championship with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, continuing his rise on the pound-for-pound ladder and fulfilling his promise of a first-round finish.

• Topuria's victory, marked by a sharp right hand and a devastating left hook, extended his perfect record to 17-0, with 10 first-round finishes, and solidified his status as the first undefeated fighter to hold UFC titles in two weight classes.

• The event saw an intense post-fight confrontation between Topuria and Paddy Pimblett, fueled by a past altercation involving a thrown bottle, with both fighters exchanging heated words and challenging each other.

• In the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja retained his flyweight title by defeating Kai Kara-France with a rear-naked choke, marking his fourth successful title defense, and extending his winning streak to eight fights.

• Joshua Van impressed the audience with a victory over No. 1 contender Brandon Royval, landing 419 significant strikes in a high-paced featherweight bout, which was noted for its intense boxing exchanges.

• The main card also featured a lightweight bout where Beneil Dariush overcame a first-round knockdown to win by unanimous decision against Renato Moicano, and a bantamweight match in which Payton Talbott showed an improved ground game to defeat Felipe Lima.

• UFC CEO Dana White praised Topuria's performance, acknowledging him as a rising star in the mixed martial arts world, while expressing disapproval of Pimblett's actions in the ring post-fight.