Sean Shelby's Shoes: What's next for Ilia Topuria after UFC 308 title defense?

(ALSO SEE: Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Max Holloway after UFC 308 title-fight loss?)

Ilia Topuria backed up all his talk prior to UFC 308 when he went into the octagon and became the first man to knock out Max Holloway.

After taking the belt from Alexander Volkanovski in February, Topuria (16-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) took out another all-time great featherweight in his first defense when he put down Holloway (26-8 MMA, 22-8 UFC) with punches in the third round of the headlining contest at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Topuria is still just 27, but already he has put himself on the map with a remarkable career inside the octagon, and if his words remain true going forward, this is only just the start of what could be a special run.

What’s next for Topuria in his second defense at 145 pounds? Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on his future after UFC 308.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 308.