Apr 13, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Charles Oliveira during UFC 300 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

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Team Charles Oliveira Shares An Update On Potential Ilia Topuria Fight

Charles Oliveira's team makes a stand for his potential fight against Ilia Topuria and it is not straightforward!

Apr 13, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Charles Oliveira during UFC 300 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The lightweight division in UFC has always been a shark tank filled with killers. This weight class has consistently delivered some of the most thrilling matchups in the promotion’s history. Now, fans are looking at another potential blockbuster as the newest sensation Ilia Topuria eyes entry into these dangerous waters.

Fresh off his featherweight championship reign, the undefeated Spanish-Georgian fighter seems hungry for bigger challenges. However, it appears not everyone is willing to play ball on his terms.

Also Read: Ilia Topuria Wants Title Shot Next Against P4P King Islam Makhachev, As Per Sources!

Team Oliveira’s Response

According to renowned MMA analyst and former UFC fighter Chael Sonnen, Charles Oliveira’s camp has laid down some strict conditions for a potential clash with Topuria. The Brazilian submission specialist, who holds the record for most finishes in UFC history, isn’t jumping at the opportunity to welcome Topuria to the lightweight division. Instead, his manager Diego Lima has made it clear that “Do Bronx” will only face Topuria under specific circumstances.

“[According to Oliveira’s manager], no, Charles Oliveira will not fight Ilia Topuria– Charles deserves a title shot. In fact, Charles sees it that if Ilia wants to fight Charles, Charles is making a demand that he’s got two choices- first, he fight Max Holloway for the BMF belt and he wins, then Charles will grant him the fight, so that Charles is fighting for a title, I assume. Or Ilia fights and defeats Islam. If he fights and defeats Islam and he is the world champion, then Charles will fight him because, again, it would be for the belt,”

This stance isn’t entirely surprising given Oliveira’s impressive resume. The Brazilian has been on a remarkable journey in the UFC, overcoming early career struggles to become one of the most feared fighters on the roster. His finishes speak volumes about his lethal abilities inside the octagon, making him a dangerous proposition for anyone, including the rising star Topuria.

Ilia Topuria’s Dilemma

Meeting Oliveira’s conditions presents a significant challenge for Ilia Topuria. For starters, Holloway is coming off a knockout loss to Topuria himself at UFC 308, making a rematch for the BMF title unlikely in the immediate future. As for dethroning Makhachev, that path seems equally blocked. Dana White reportedly isn’t keen on granting Topuria an immediate title shot at lightweight without proving himself first in the division.

This leaves Ilia Topuria in a tricky spot. His team has made it clear they are only interested in championship fights. But with both paths to Oliveira seemingly closed off for now, Topuria might need to reconsider his options.

Several interesting alternatives exist for Topuria’s lightweight debut. Arman Tsarukyan, currently ranked #1 in the division, would offer a legitimate test and potential fast-track to title contention. There is also the possibility of facing Dustin Poirier, who is looking for a high-profile farewell fight in his home state of Louisiana.

(Image Credit: Mark J. Rebilas – Imagn Images)

Charles Oliveira

Ilia Topuria

Islam Makhachev

Zaid Quraishi

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I am a dedicated MMA and Boxing content writer at The Playoffs. I was instantly hooked on MMA after watching the fight between Lyoto Machida vs. Gegard Mousasi back in 2014, and since then, i have been an avid writer with a deep love for the sport and its techniques, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the sport. My favorite aspect of working at The Playoffs is the creative freedom it provides. The diverse range of topics, from listicles and SEO to news articles, keeps me engaged and motivates me to continuously improve my skills! I aim to capture the excitement of the combat sports world in my writing, acting as the middleman between fighters and their die-hard fans. It is kind of like a referee, but with words!