Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has addressed UFC management regarding a potential fight with Ilia Topuria, following recent exchanges between them.
Oliveira and Topuria have been verbally sparring recently, especially with Topuria expected to announce his move to the lightweight division. Oliveira, a top contender for the lightweight title after his victory over Michael Chandler, is seen as a possible opponent for Topuria`s lightweight debut.
Topuria is set to relinquish his featherweight title to compete in the lightweight division, with Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes vying for the vacant belt at UFC 314. Currently, Topuria`s next opponent is yet to be officially announced, despite hints from Topuria about a surprising announcement.
Both Oliveira and Topuria are strong contenders for the next lightweight title shot against Islam Makhachev. A fight between Oliveira and Topuria to determine the number one contender would also be a logical step, especially given Arman Tsarukyan`s delayed pursuit of a title opportunity.
Charles Oliveira Focuses on Topuria After Recent Exchanges
Despite minimal experience in the lightweight division in the UFC, Topuria told Oliveira to “be quiet,” declaring himself the uncrowned king of the division. Oliveira quickly responded, but perhaps not in the way many anticipated.
In a recent message on his Instagram story, Oliveira sent a direct appeal to UFC matchmakers.
“Hey everyone, good morning, afternoon, or evening! In the UFC and MMA, many guys are talking too much about history in the UFC. I can speak on this, I’ve been here for 15 years. Most bonuses, finishes, record breaker, that’s me! Got it?” Oliveira stated.
“I want to fight on International Fight Week, [against] Makhachev too,” Oliveira continued. “Dana, Sean Shelby, Hunter, make it happen. I really want this fight. I’m after that belt, I want to be champ again. I’m ready to write history one more time. UFC, let’s make this happen! This is the fight everyone wants to see. I’m ready. Makhachev’s talking big about wanting this fight, so it’ll be a war for sure. Is this the fight you want? It’s the fight you’ll get…just give me a call.”
It appears Oliveira`s primary goal is not a fight with Topuria, but a rematch with Makhachev for the lightweight title. Oliveira previously lost to Makhachev for the vacant title at UFC 280, after a weight-cutting issue led to him being stripped of his title at UFC 274.
Ilia Topuria Returns to Corner at UFC London
As of now, Topuria and Makhachev have not responded to Oliveira’s video message. Lightweight champion Makhachev is expected to return this summer, following his recent title defense against Renato Moicano at UFC 311.
Topuria was recently seen cornering Guram Kutateladze at UFC London. Kutateladze was defeated by Kaue Fernandes by unanimous decision.
Prior to UFC London, Topuria and Paddy Pimblett had a surprisingly friendly interaction at the ceremonial weigh-ins. The two have a history of tension, stemming back to a hotel altercation in 2022.
As Topuria prepares for his move to the lightweight division, tensions are rising with the division`s top fighters. A potential clash between Oliveira and Topuria is possible, presenting UFC management with challenging matchmaking decisions in the lightweight division.
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley