Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has never been one to shy away from controversy, and his latest callout of former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has set the MMA world on fire. As he prepares to move up to the lightweight division, Topuria has made it clear that he wants to face the biggest names in the sport. But according to him, neither Oliveira nor current champion Islam Makhachev seems eager to step into the Octagon with him.

Topuria, who is expected to vacate his featherweight title at UFC 314 next month, has openly accused Oliveira of avoiding a potential fight. He didn’t hold back when speaking about the Brazilian, saying, “Oliveira is scared. He doesn’t want this fight because he knows what will happen.”

But is Oliveira really dodging the Spanish-Georgian powerhouse? Or is Topuria just playing mind games to hype up his lightweight debut?

Topuria’s Bold Move: Chasing Lightweight Glory

At just 27 years old, Ilia Topuria has already conquered the featherweight division, and now he’s making a daring leap into one of the most stacked divisions in the UFC. With an undefeated record and a reputation for being one of the most dangerous strikers and grapplers in the sport, Topuria is determined to immediately break into the title picture.

His targets? None other than Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira.

While Makhachev currently reigns as the lightweight champion, Topuria believes that a statement victory over Oliveira could be his golden ticket to a title shot. But in his eyes, there’s just one problem: Oliveira wants no part of him.

The War of Words: Oliveira Responds to Topuria’s Accusations

It didn’t take long for Charles Oliveira to fire back at Topuria’s accusations. The former champion, known for his aggressive fighting style and impressive resume, dismissed Topuria’s claims as nothing more than a desperate attempt to gain attention.

“I don’t run from fights,” Oliveira said in a recent interview. “I’ve fought the best in this division, and I’ll keep doing so. If he wants a shot, he needs to prove himself first.”

Oliveira, who is focused on reclaiming the lightweight championship, made it clear that he isn’t interested in trash talk. Instead, he’s looking for fights that bring him closer to another title opportunity.

But while Oliveira might be brushing off Topuria’s words, fans have already started debating: Is Topuria being overlooked, or is Oliveira genuinely not interested in the fight?

Topuria’s Credentials: Is He Ready for a Lightweight Title Shot?

While Ilia Topuria’s dominance at featherweight is undeniable, the lightweight division presents a whole new challenge. The division is filled with elite-level fighters who have already proven themselves against the best.

Here’s why some believe Topuria might not be ready to jump straight into a fight with Oliveira or Makhachev:

• No fights at lightweight yet: Unlike fighters like Alexander Volkanovski, who moved up and earned his shot, Topuria has yet to fight in the division.

• Oliveira’s experience: With wins over Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Beneil Dariush, Oliveira has consistently fought top-tier competition.

• The depth of the division: Names like Arman Tsarukyan, Mateusz Gamrot, and Justin Gaethje are already lined up for big fights.

But Topuria’s confidence and talent cannot be ignored. If he does step into the cage against Oliveira or another top contender, he’ll have the chance to prove that he belongs among the elite at 155 pounds.

Oliveira vs. Topuria: The Fight Fans Want to See?

Despite the back-and-forth between these two fighters, the UFC has yet to confirm if this fight will happen. However, if it does, it could be a blockbuster showdown.

Stylistically, this would be an incredible fight:

• Topuria’s knockout power vs. Oliveira’s submission skills

• Relentless forward pressure vs. High-level Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu

• A rising star looking to prove himself vs. A battle-tested warrior aiming to reclaim gold

For Topuria, a win over Oliveira would fast-track him to a title shot. For Oliveira, it’s a chance to shut down the hype and remind the world why he’s still one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport.

The Lightweight Title Picture: Where Does This Rivalry Fit In?

While Topuria vs. Oliveira is a fight that could generate massive interest, the lightweight division is already packed with title contenders.

Here’s how things are shaping up:

• Islam Makhachev is expected to defend his belt later this year.

• Arman Tsarukyan is pushing for a title eliminator.

• Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier remain in the mix.

If the UFC decides to book Oliveira vs. Topuria, it could serve as a high-stakes title eliminator, with the winner potentially securing a title shot by the end of 2025.

But first, the UFC needs both fighters to agree. And with Oliveira seemingly uninterested and Topuria calling him out at every opportunity, it remains to be seen whether this fight will actually happen.

What’s Next for Ilia Topuria?

While Topuria’s trash talk has certainly grabbed headlines, he now has to back it up inside the Octagon. With the featherweight title expected to be vacated soon, his focus will fully shift to lightweight, where his first test will be crucial in determining his future.

Will he get the big-name fight he wants against Charles Oliveira? Or will the UFC match him up with another lightweight contender to prove himself before a title shot?

One thing is certain: Ilia Topuria has arrived in the lightweight division, and he’s not planning to stay quiet.

Final Thoughts: Is Oliveira Ducking Topuria, or Is It All Hype?

The drama between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira has already ignited a heated debate among MMA fans. While Topuria is making bold claims, Oliveira remains focused on his own path to the title.

But if this fight does happen, it could be one of the biggest lightweight clashes of the year.

So, what do you think? Is Oliveira avoiding Topuria, or is Topuria just trying to stir up attention for his lightweight debut?

Could This Be the UFC’s Next Big Grudge Match?

With the tension between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira reaching new heights, the UFC has a golden opportunity to capitalize on this heated rivalry. Topuria’s relentless callouts and Oliveira’s dismissive responses have only fueled fan speculation. If the UFC books this fight, it could be a high-stakes war that shakes up the lightweight division. But will Oliveira accept the challenge, or will Topuria have to prove himself against another contender first? One thing is certain—Topuria isn’t backing down, and the fight world is watching.