Five years ago today, Ilia Topuria first demonstrated his fearsome knockout power in the UFC. On December 5, 2020, UFC Vegas 16 featured a middleweight main event between Jack Hermansson and Marvin Vettori at the Apex, but despite the main event going to decision, the card was packed with brutal finishes. Highlights included a slam knockout of Jordan Leavitt, a standing TKO by Jamahal Hill over Ovince Saint Preux, and notably, Topuria’s first UFC finish against Damon Jackson.
Before becoming a two-division champion, “El Matador” impressed fans with his knockout ability by landing a powerful right hand that knocked out Jackson in the first round. Topuria, who came in undefeated at 8-0, was previously known for his grappling skills, predominantly winning by submission. However, his knockout of Jackson revealed his evolving striking prowess, including a punishing left hook to the body that visibly injured Jackson before delivering the finishing blow.
Topuria’s most recent highlight came in June at UFC 317 when he delivered a brutal knockout of the legendary Charles Oliveira to claim the lightweight title. Unfortunately, fans won’t see Topuria in the Octagon anytime soon, as he announced a hiatus from competing due to personal issues, putting his lightweight title defense on hold. In his absence, an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett will take place at UFC 324, with Topuria expected to face the eventual winner upon his return later this year.
Fan Take: Ilia Topuria’s rise symbolizes the evolution of fighters who blend technical grappling with devastating striking, making him one of the most exciting athletes in the sport. His temporary absence leaves a thrilling interim title fight in the lightweight division, setting the stage for a highly anticipated return that could redefine the landscape of UFC championships.
