“Volkanovski was the most difficult”

He said he would do it, and he did it. Ilia Topuria is a man of his word. The Spanish-Georgian knocked out Charles Oliveira in the first round with a terrifying right hand, at 2 minutes and 27 seconds, to become the lightweight champion and a double champion. Topuria is already considered one of the best fighters in the history of the company; even Dana White himself has acknowledged this.

At International Fight Week, against the UFC’s top fighters, El Matador once again delivered a performance of his own, stunning the crowd. He is undoubtedly one of a kind. Topuria spoke to the media, including AS, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas after his victory.

How do you feel now that you’ve won?

I feel much better because I’ve already done it. He’s already at heavyweight.

Is this the best combination you’ve thrown in your career?

I have better combinations. They need to stay inside me a little longer. Maybe you’ll be able to see them later.

When he grabbed your leg, did you feel he could beat you?

He was so close to being in a dominant position. I saw on his face that he was ready, so I got up.

How does it feel to knock out another legend?

It’s incredible. You can’t put it into words. Beating guys like Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, or Charles Oliveira. No one in the world can say that. I know what I’m capable of in these types of situations, I know how good I am, and the skills I have inside the Octagon. You may think I’m crazy, but I have to prove I’m the best fighter in the world.

Is the fight with Paddy (Pimblett) really the one you want?

Yes. This is the fight I want because I had a difficult time with Charles because I really like him. He’s a great person. Him, his team, his family... But, in the end, it’s work. With Paddy, I’m going to enjoy it. I only have good things to say about Charles. I respect him a lot. Everyone is a challenge. There are no easy fights. I follow my strategy and make it easy.

How was the fight at your new weight?

I’ve felt better than ever. Training camp was easier... I’m here to stay.

How would you rank your last three KOs?

I’d put (Alexander) Volkanovski in the first. He was the toughest. Max (Holloway) in the second, and Charles in the third.

Who does Ilia Topuria think is the best pound-for-pound fighter?

I have Merab (Dvalishvili) there, and I wouldn’t mind sharing a spot with him. So I’m going with him, we’re both the best.

And what about UFC Spain?

I want to take you guys to Spain. You’re going to enjoy it a lot, the Santiago Bernabéu. It’s going to happen in 2026, for sure. Another dream come true. We’d have something like a Champions League final at the Bernabéu. The English fighters and us. It would be incredible and one of the most beautiful fights.

If Volkanovski decides to move back up to lightweight to pursue a belt, would you give him the chance for a rematch?

No. We won’t do that with Volkanovski.

Are you at a mental and physical point where you feel invincible?

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I don’t feel invincible, that’s why I put in so much effort. I know I’m beatable, and that’s why I train and push myself hard every day. That’s why I do the work I do. When training camp is over, I already consider it a victory. So I don’t feel like I could have done more.

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