https://www.mmanews.com/news/ufc/charles-oliveira-ufc-update-ilia-topuria/
Charles Oliveiraâs manager and coach, Diego Lima, has provided an update on the former UFC lightweight champion and the possibility of a fight against Ilia Topuria.
Contrary to rumors of a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski, Topuria announced last month that he intends to vacate the featherweight title and move up to 155 pounds.
UFC CEO Dana White believes this surprising decision stems from Topuriaâs struggles with weight cuts and waning interest in the featherweight division. Now, the big question is: whatâs next?
While not officially confirmed, Topuria is widely expected to be Islam Makhachevâs next challenger for the UFC lightweight title.
Meanwhile, Charles Oliveira secured a unanimous decision victory over Michael Chandler last time out in a five-round co-main event rematch at UFC 309. The bout earned âFight of the Nightâ honors and placed the Brazilian back into the championship conversation.
Coach Lima weighed in on the evolving title picture while speaking to Ălvaro Colmenero.
âEverything is revolving around Makhachev. If Belal doesnât win the fight in May, (Makhachev) would have a chance to go up a weight class, leaving us with Topuria vs. Charles.
âBut if Belal wins, (Makhachev) would stay at lightweight, and we would have to see with the UFC who it would be â Topuria or Charles â because it depends on two factors: the UFC and Makhachev himself.â
We need to see Topuria vs Charles
Bit somewhat rather rude if I dare say, to ko Holloway and then move up a class!
Heâd flatline Charles.
I always find it strange when guys let others effect their career. Aljo/Merab, for some reason Belal and Islam etc
Oliveira has also been calling for a âBMFâ fight against Holloway.
âI was talking about fighting with Max Holloway for the BMF, but it seems that he will fight with Dustin Poirier,â Oliveira continued. âTo be honest, I want to fight for the title, I believe I deserve it. Makhachev wonât fight for a while and thatâs why the idea of the BMF came up. I want to fight for the title anyway, now Iâm just waiting for the call.â
Oliveira lost the lightweight title to Makhachev at UFC 280.
That makes sense to me.
Lol at the BMF belt.
These guys actually think itâs a big deal?