Charles Oliveira is currently focused on facing only top-tier opponents and does not consider Ilia Topuria to be among them.
In a recent interview, Oliveira discussed his future plans as he waits for his next fight booking. Coming off a thrilling victory against Michael Chandler at UFC 309, Oliveira remains a leading contender for the lightweight championship, which is currently held by Islam Makhachev.
Oliveira has previously fought Makhachev at UFC 280, losing by submission in the second round. He is eager for a rematch with Makhachev for the title. Topuria, the current featherweight champion who is expected to move up to lightweight, has expressed interest in fighting Oliveira as a stepping stone to a title shot against Makhachev. However, Oliveira is not enthusiastic about this matchup.
Oliveira stated that while many names are being discussed, his primary goal is to reclaim the lightweight title from Islam Makhachev. He acknowledged Topuria as a formidable and deserving opponent but emphasized that he doesn`t view a fight with Topuria as a major step towards his title aspirations.
“Right now, I don’t see it as a big fight. And if I’m looking for a title, well, I have to fight Makhachev in order to win and become champion again,” Oliveira explained.
Oliveira also recently mentioned his belief that he could defeat the undefeated Topuria by knockout.
It remains unclear which of Oliveira`s comments prompted Topuria`s reaction, but “El Matador” responded on social media with strong words, telling Oliveira to “stay quiet.”
Topuria`s response to Oliveira was direct and assertive: “Charles, it’s better if you stay quiet. You have 10 losses: 5 by knockout, 4 by submission, and 1 by decision. You are the contender, while I am the champion, the father of the entire division. I haven’t come here to ask anything. Here, I am the one in charge.”
Topuria aims to become a champion in two weight divisions, building on his undefeated 8-0 UFC record, which includes recent knockout victories over featherweight legends Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski.
