Ilia Topuria promises Champions League-style UFC fight that will delight Real Madrid fans

Ilia Topuria made a promise—and delivered. The Spanish-Georgian superstar flattened Charles Oliveira with a devastating right hand just 2 minutes and 27 seconds into the first round, claiming the UFC lightweight title and adding a second belt to his name.

Ilia Topuria: one of UFC’s greatest ever fighters?

Now a two-division champion, “El Matador” is already being talked about as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history—even Dana White has said as much.

During International Fight Week, surrounded by the sport’s biggest names, Topuria once again stole the spotlight with a breathtaking performance that left the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas stunned. After the fight, he sat down with reporters, including from AS, to talk about the win, what’s next, and his bold vision for the UFC.

What did Topuria say after his historic victory over Oliveria?

How do you feel now that you’ve won?

Honestly, a lot better. It’s already in the rearview mirror.

Was that the best combo you’ve ever landed?

I’ve got better ones. They just need to hang in there long enough for me to use them. Maybe you’ll see those later on.

When Oliveira grabbed your leg, did you feel like he had a shot at beating you?

He came really close to getting a dominant position. I saw it in his eyes—he was ready. So I got up fast.

What’s it like to knock out another legend?

It’s unreal. I can’t even put it into words. Beating guys like Volkanovski, Holloway, and now Oliveira… nobody else in the world can say that. I know what I’m capable of in that cage. I know how good I am. You might think I’m crazy, but I need to prove I’m the best fighter on the planet.

Is the fight with Paddy Pimblett the one you truly want?

Yes. That’s the one I want. The thing is, I actually really like Charles. He’s a great guy. His team, his family—amazing people. But this is business. With Paddy? I’m gonna enjoy that one. Nothing but respect for Charles. I admire him a lot. Every opponent is a challenge. There are no easy fights. I just stick to my strategy and make it look easy.

How did you feel fighting at your new weight class?

Better than ever. The training camp was smoother. I’m here to stay.

How would you rank your last three knockouts?

Volkanovski’s was the toughest, so that’s number one. Then Holloway. Then Oliveira.

In your opinion, who’s the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world?

Merab Dvalishvili. I’d share that spot with him. We’re the top two.

What about UFC Spain—could we actually see it happen?

I want to bring the UFC to Spain. You guys are going to love it. I’m telling you, the Santiago Bernabéu. It’s happening in 2026, 100 percent. It’s another dream I’m going to make come true. It’d be like a Champions League final—but with fists. Us versus the English. It’d be one of the most epic fights you’ve ever seen.

If Volkanovski moved back up to lightweight, would you give him a rematch?

No. That’s not happening.

Do you feel mentally and physically unbeatable right now?

No—I don’t feel invincible. That’s exactly why I work so hard. I know I can be beaten, which is why I train and push myself like I do every single day. That’s the mindset. When the camp is over, I want to walk away knowing I already won—because I gave everything I had. No regrets.

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