Long-time UFC lightweight contender and former champion Charles Oliveira recently offered a candid reflection on a career first: being knocked unconscious. The defining moment occurred on June 28th at UFC 317, where he faced off against the undefeated Ilia Topuria. For Oliveira, a veteran of 47 professional mixed martial arts bouts, the loss delivered not just a defeat, but a novel and jarring experience.
According to Oliveira, the power displayed by Topuria was unlike anything he had encountered previously in his extensive career. While he has faced and overcome numerous hard hitters, including high-profile opponents like Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, and Michael Chandler, who certainly knocked him down and caused damage, he distinctly identifies Topuria as the individual who landed the most impactful blow he has ever absorbed.
The physical impact was such that Oliveira reveals he had no immediate memory of the fight`s conclusion. He recounted the disorienting moments post-fight, repeatedly asking those around him – his team, his wife, and family – what had transpired and where he was. This state of confusion was entirely new for the seasoned fighter, making the experience particularly unsettling. His loved ones calmly reassured him, instructing him to relax and promising to explain later.
Beyond the physical ramifications of the knockout, Oliveira expressed significant frustration over his inability to execute his planned strategy. His tactical approach for the fight involved maintaining distance through various kicks – front kicks, oblique kicks, and calf kicks – specifically to avoid engaging with Topuria at close range, where the Georgian-Spanish fighter excels. However, for reasons he couldn`t fully explain, he found himself drawn into the exact type of fight he sought to avoid in Las Vegas, ultimately falling victim to Topuria`s effective pressure and power.
He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts, conceding that on that night, Topuria was the superior fighter who successfully implemented his game plan to become the champion.
Looking ahead, Oliveira remains confident in his ability to challenge for the belt again. He anticipates needing “one, two or three wins” against significant opponents to re-enter the title picture, a journey he plans to begin after taking some time away. Following a period dedicated to travel and seminars, Oliveira targets a return to competition in the fourth quarter of 2025. Specifically, he aims for a fight in November or early December of that year, though an opponent has not yet been determined. Despite the recent setback, the veteran appears determined to navigate the path back to the top of the lightweight division.
