Ilia Topuria on Controversial Strikes After Knocking Out Oliveira: 'It's Not Violent, It's the Rules'

Ilia Topuria held his first press conference in Spain this Friday after securing his second UFC belt last Sunday. In recent days, a heated debate erupted on social media, with claims that Topuria was not a good sportsman. Critics argued that after knocking down Charles Oliveira, he went to the ground to deliver two more strikes. The double champion defended his actions, stating that it was not violent behaviour but part of the rules. "If you don't finish him and he decides to continue, he could be fighting with brain damage, and that's truly dangerous," he proclaimed. Additionally, Topuria assured that all competitors are prepared to endure such damage.

The Spanish-Georgian maintains the idea of hosting a UFC event in Spain, hoping it could take place at the Santiago Bernabéu. The current television contract prevents events in Europe this year, but this will change from 2026. Topuria thought achieving this goal would be easier than it has been, but he remains confident he will succeed. "I believe the UFC will come to Spain in 2026," he stated. He even expressed a desire for Sergio Ramos to accompany him during the entrance of the event.

Regarding his dream fight with Islam Makhachev, it will have to wait, as the UFC has asked Topuria not to move up a division. This could be due to a bottleneck in the category, with a champion not focused on his title. "If I move, I would stall the lightweight division for one or two years, and I can't halt the careers of young fighters," Topuria pointed out.

The new champion would like his next defence to be against Paddy. "If it were up to me, Paddy would be next, which is why I brought him into the octagon," he indicated. Although Paddy is not the number one contender or the highest-ranked, the rivalry grants him an opportunity. Topuria mentioned he doesn't need to keep him alive until the last round to enjoy the fight. Instead, he wants to knock him out as soon as possible.

Topuria is being compared to great Spanish athletes from other disciplines, such as Rafa Nadal or Pau Gasol, for his achievement in putting Spain on the map in a globally recognised sport. The Matador aims to be one of the greats. "I am one of the many athletes representing Spain, and I want to do so by winning so that we are seen as people who don't give up," he affirmed. He added that he would like to be remembered as someone who fought for his dreams without compromising his values. Topuria intends to inspire future generations.

At Friday's event, Topuria introduced his new beverage brand called MUCHO. This is another step towards building his image, as the Spanish-Georgian's legacy extends beyond sports and becomes a brand. Topuria not only aims to retire undefeated from fighting but also seeks to be more approachable to those who have yet to give him a chance to be known.