Ilia Topuria takes brutal shot at Islam Makhachev after securing lightweight title fight against Charles Oliveira

Ilia Topuria didn’t mince words after landing a historic lightweight title shot, taking a fiery jab at former champion Islam Makhachev while setting his sights on Brazilian legend Charles Oliveira. The Spanish-Georgian phenom, who vacated his featherweight belt to pursue double-champ status, will face Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317 on June 28—a bout made possible only after Makhachev’s abrupt departure from the division.

Ilia Topuria mocks Islam Makhachev's welterweight leap

Topuria didn’t hold back when addressing Makhachev’s decision to abandon the lightweight throne for a welterweight clash against Jack Della Maddalena.

“It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away,” Topuria quipped, suggesting the Dagestani star ducked a potential showdown.

“I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division… Charles, my apologies in advance. I’m just fighting for my dreams.”

The road to UFC 317

Belt Vacated: Islam Makhachev relinquished the lightweight title Tuesday, clearing Ilia Topuria’s path to a second crown.

Charles Oliveira’s Redemption: The Brazilian submission wizard gets another shot at gold after losing to Makhachev in 2022.

Topuria’s Audacity: Fresh off dethroning Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, “El Matador” aims to add Oliveira to his hit list.

Why this fight matters

Topuria’s leap to 155 pounds marks one of the UFC’s boldest crossover attempts in years. A win would make him the promotion’s first simultaneous Spanish champion and cement his status as Europe’s biggest MMA star. For Oliveira, it’s a chance to reclaim the throne he never lost in the octagon.

Though Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight stunned fans, Topuria’s taunts hint at unfinished business. The former lightweight king’s pursuit of a second belt at 170 pounds could set up a future superfight—if Topuria conquers Charles Oliveira first.

In a social media post announcing the fight, Ilia Topuria blended respect with ruthlessness:

“On June 28, another dream will come true… Charles, my apologies in advance.”

The message underscores his confidence but also acknowledges Oliveira’s legendary grappling threat.

Fight Night Implications

UFC 317’s main event now hinges on stylistic fireworks:

Topuria’s Power: 14 finishes in 15 wins, including brutal KOs of Volkanovski and Bryce Mitchell.

Charles Oliveira’s Submissions: A record 16 UFC submission wins, with a knack for surviving chaos.

Legacy at Stake: Both fighters aim to etch their names in UFC’s two-division champion pantheon.

While Islam Makhachev chases welterweight glory, Ilia Topuria’s focus is clear: dominate Oliveira, claim the belt, and dare the UFC to book a blockbuster clash. As he put it: “I’m not here to play games. I’m here to make history."