Charles Oliveira Breaks Silence After UFC 317 Knockout Loss: “It Wasn’t How We Wanted It to Be”

Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira kept his post-fight reaction measured after suffering a devastating loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 317.

Shortly after the bout, Oliveira issued a brief message on X (formerly Twitter), simply stating:

“My apologies.”

He followed up with a slightly longer note to fans via Instagram, expressing gratitude despite the disappointing outcome:

“It wasn’t how we wanted it to be, but for the best, I want to thank everyone for the affection and wonderful energy. God bless you all.”

A Painful Defeat in Vegas

Oliveira (35-11 MMA, 23-11 UFC), 35, was knocked out cold by the undefeated Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) just 2:27 into the first round of their main event clash for the vacant lightweight championship at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The brutal finish marked the first time Oliveira had been stopped by strikes in nearly seven years, dating back to his December 2017 TKO loss to Paul Felder.

Though visibly dazed and down for several minutes after the knockout, Oliveira eventually returned to his feet for the official decision announcement.

Where Does ‘Do Bronx’ Go From Here?

The loss marked Oliveira’s third defeat in his last five fights, a skid that could shift his trajectory in the ultra-competitive 155-pound division. Known for his thrilling fighting style and remarkable comeback story, the Brazilian still holds the record for most finishes in UFC history — but questions now loom about his next steps.

Whether he retools for another title run or takes time to regroup, one thing is certain: Charles Oliveira remains one of the most beloved and dangerous fighters the sport has ever seen.