“He’s a star.” This was the definition that Dana White, the head of the UFC, used to describe Ilia Topuria (17-0) after his stunning knockout victory over Charles Oliveira (35-11). The Hispanic-Georgian fighter declared he would finish the bout in the first round, and he proved it with a devastating combination of hooks to the head. This achievement, along with becoming the first fighter in UFC history to hold the dual championships in featherweight and lightweight without a loss, has propelled him to the top of the pound-for-pound (P4P) rankings. Essentially, he is regarded as the best fighter in the world, and indeed, he is a star.
Topuria has climbed two spots in the rankings, surpassing his close friend and fellow Georgian Merab Dvalishvili (ranked #2) and his rival, Islam Makhachev (ranked #1). A fight with Makhachev has been Topuria’s ambition ever since his victory over Max Holloway, and that plan led him to move up to lightweight. However, Makhachev has also risen to welterweight, where he aspires to obtain a dual title as well—a prospect that Topuria may chase should he successfully defend his title.
The emotions experienced at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas might place Paddy Pimblett in Topuria’s path. However, the displeasure of White regarding the post-fight confrontation and the insults exchanged might diminish the British fighter’s chances. From a ranking standpoint, the best option would be Arman Tsarukyan, who served as a substitute in the fight against Oliveira, while from a branding perspective, Justin Gaethje, currently #4 in the lightweight rankings, could be the one to face Topuria next.
That said, Topuria is not particularly fond of Tsarukyan, as he criticized the Armenian for pulling out of the fight against Makhachev due to physical issues, labeling it as a lack of professionalism. This opinion now carries weight in the UFC world, not only because of White’s praise but also the recognition he received from experts.
The UFC P4P rankings are determined by a panel of journalists, broadcasters, and analysts who regularly cover the league. The criteria differ from divisional rankings, although there are common elements. They consider statistics, personal records, finishing ability, dominance, opponent quality, and activity during bouts. However, there is always a subjective lens applied, with an emphasis on recent accomplishments compared to a fighter’s evolving legacy.
Topuria’s records are irrefutable. He has knocked out top-15 ranked fighters in his last three bouts, providing him with a solid foundation for this highly respected honor. Essentially, the number one pound-for-pound fighter is seen as the best in the world, capable of defeating anyone, regardless of size.
Privileges of Being #1
Beyond the criteria for selection, achieving the pinnacle of the pound-for-pound rankings also brings certain tangible and intangible benefits. While Topuria may not have the power to choose his opponent for the first title defense, his input certainly carries more weight in that decision now. Moreover, it grants him greater respect within the organization and among his peers, bolsters his position during contract negotiations for future fights, and acts as a significant boost for his image and marketing potential, paving the way for future sponsorship agreements.
Interestingly, the P4P ranking was a collective entity within the UFC until 2020, when the increase in female fighters necessitated its division. In the women’s category, Valentina Shevchenko positions herself parallel to Topuria. El Matador dethroned Makhachev after a streak of 602 days—a record that ranks second behind Jon Jones with 659 days. Clearly, Topuria is on a path to making history, or perhaps even reshaping it entirely.