Charles Oliveira believes he can beat Ilia Topuria, but it isn't a fight he is currently aiming for. Instead, the Brazilian star is aiming for a championship belt, be it the undisputed UFC lightweight title or the BMF title. However, if a fight with Topuria does materialize, he isn't lacking in confidence.
In a recent interview with online sportsbook Oddspedia, 'Do Bronx' shared his thoughts on the current landscape of the lightweight division. Oliveira feels he is the most deserving of a lightweight title shot, but understands that it isn't his place to decide who Islam Makhachev fights next.
He said:
"The division is very complicated. I think I deserve to be next in line, but I work for Zuffa. There is talk about Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria. I'm just waiting on the call. I don't know who is next. There is talk, but I just don't know."
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Despite his reluctance to fight Topuria, Oliveira believes he can not just beat him but knock him out.
"Whoever I get told to fight, I'm going to fight. I have nothing but respect for Ilia Topuria, but this is lightweight. It's the most difficult division you have ever seen, and I have power in my hands. I believe in my jiu-jitsu, but I believe that I could knock Ilia Topuria out."
For now, Topuria continues to seek a crack at lightweight gold. Unfortunately, there's a logjam at the top of the division, with fighters like Topuria, 'Do Bronx,' Justin Gaethje, and of course Arman Tsarukyan all feeling entitled to a championship fight next.
Charles Oliveira hasn't been on a winning streak in three years
While Charles Oliveira is held in high regard, he hasn't been tremendously successful since losing to Islam Makhachev in a bout for the vacant lightweight title. He rebounded from the loss with a TKO over Beneil Dariush but suffered a subsequent loss to Arman Tsarukyan.
Check out Charles Oliveira outwrestling Michael Chandler:
Thereafter, he bounced back by beating Michael Chandler in a rematch, making him 2-2 in his last four fights. He has yet to do much to solidify his claim to another title shot, especially with Tsarukyan hovering around.
