In the aftermath of UFC 317, a bold new narrative is emerging in the world of MMA: Ilia Topuria is carving out a unique and preeminent place in UFC history, eluding all previous greats including Conor McGregor. This suggestion might have seemed far-fetched in the past, but Topuria’s recent stellar performance, crowned with his unique two-division championship, suggests a paradigmatic shift in the power dynamics of UFC legends. Ilia Topuria’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Already having conquered the featherweight division with a remarkable victory against Alexander Volkanovski, Topuria aimed higher at the lightweight championship. UFC 317 was witness to a spectacle where Topuria singlehandedly claimed the vacant lightweight title by ending Charles Oliveira’s reign with a first-round knockout. This victory catapulted Topuria into a unique UFC timeline, making him the tenth competitor to hold two titles simultaneously, and he achieved this with a flawless, undefeated record appearing even more formidable at 17-0.
What sets Topuria apart is not just his wins, but the fierceness with which he has claimed them. He captured the double championship at the age of 28 years, 4 months, and 21 days, making him 11 days older than when McGregor reached the same milestone. Unlike McGregor, known for extravagant boasts and historical wins, Topuria made a name for himself with unfaltering, precise, and deterrent finishing ability.
He struck down Volkanovski, became the inaugural individual to trounce Max Holloway, and now holds a less-than-three-minute knockout against Oliveira. Topuria’s performances, however, are only part of the story. It’s a global resonance he’s earned, resonating particularly strong in Spain, that adds to the narrative.
The influence of this Spanish-Georgian fighter has been profound to the degree that UFC is gearing up to host its inaugural event in Spain, expanding the promotion to previously untapped markets. Topuria’s triumphant bouts have caught the attention of Spain’s sports legends, with renowned personalities such as Sergio Ramos and Iker Casillas acknowledging his victories and mainstream media documenting his every stride. This form of widespread admiration is something even McGregor, despite his worldwide celebrity, did not quite capture outside Ireland.
Conor McGregor has etched his legacy as UFC’s brightest star with his dual division championships, a larger-than-life persona, and his capability to attract colossal crowds and PPV purchases. But as McGregor’s star power has started to wane, the UFC began the hunt for its next shining beacon. Topuria, who is but 28, defies detractors not just with his undefeated record but also with the same magnetism and confidence that propelled McGregor to widespread fame.
Topuria himself has not shied away from the comparisons, boldly asserting, ‘In fact, I am bigger than him. Right now, I’m bigger than him’. This sentiment is echoed amongst UFC veterans and pundits, who have labeled Topuria as ‘the future Conor McGregor’ or, in comparison to his unbeaten record, disciplined conduct, and national appeal, arguably even greater.
Unlike McGregor, who did not defend his featherweight title, Topuria has under his belt a successful defense against Max Holloway before taking the lightweight gold. The widespread appeal of Topuria in Spain is kindling a new epoch for UFC.
His matches have become nationwide spectacles, culminating in comparisons to the nation’s most cherished sports idols. Thanks to the stardom of Topuria, the UFC is venturing into untouched territories, much like McGregor once opened the Irish and UK markets.
The rise of Ilia Topuria has been dazzling, his milestones in the sports historic, and his influence on his adoring public, undeniable. With record-breaking viewership, a nation rallying behind him, and achievements that rival and in some areas outshine Conor McGregor’s, it is not an exaggeration to say that Topuria is the biggest star in the UFC.