In the fast-paced world of mixed martial arts (MMA), Charles Oliveira remains one of the most intriguing fighters. After losing his title to Islam Makhachev, Oliveira hasn’t lost hope of reclaiming the throne. But what are his real chances of facing Makhachev again? Or even taking on the new contender, Ilia Topuria? His coach, Diego Lima, shares some exciting insights.
Makhachev: The King Seeking New Challenges
Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, seems almost invincible. With four successful title defenses under his belt, the Dagestani fighter appears to be looking for new challenges outside his weight class. A move to welterweight looms on the horizon, especially with his friend and training partner, Belal Muhammad, holding the title in that division. But what happens if Muhammad loses at UFC 315 against Jack Della Maddalena? Will Makhachev stay at lightweight, or will the doors to welterweight open for him?
Oliveira vs. Topuria: Who Deserves the Next Shot?
Amidst these twists and turns, Ilia Topuria has emerged as a new contender for the lightweight title. Topuria, the former featherweight champion, decided to vacate his title due to weight-cutting issues and is now focused on one goal: facing Islam Makhachev. But what about Charles Oliveira? The Brazilian, still ranked second, is waiting for his next opportunity after his win over Justin Gaethje.
Diego Lima, Oliveira’s coach, explains that everything depends on Makhachev and the UFC’s decisions. “If Belal Muhammad loses in May, that will open the door for Makhachev to move up to welterweight, meaning Oliveira and Topuria would compete for the vacant title,” says Lima. “But if Belal wins, Makhachev will stay at lightweight, and we’ll see who gets the next shot: Topuria or Oliveira.”
Topuria: Secret Negotiations and Pre-Arranged Deals
Lima also hints that Topuria didn’t vacate his featherweight title without prior arrangements with the UFC. “I believe Topuria will only move up if there’s a deal in place for a title fight,” says Lima. This suggests that Topuria might already be in a strong position to secure the next opportunity, putting Oliveira in a tough spot.
Michael Bisping: Topuria is Makhachev’s Next Opponent
Even experts like Michael Bisping believe that Topuria is the frontrunner to face Makhachev in the near future. But does this mean Oliveira will be left out of the equation? Or will the UFC give him another chance to prove himself?
The Big Questions: Can Oliveira Make a Comeback?
Ultimately, the big questions remain: Can Charles Oliveira reclaim his throne? Can he improve his performance against Makhachev if they meet again? Or will Topuria be the next major obstacle in his path?
Charles Oliveira reacts to Islam Makhachev submitting Renato Moicano pic.twitter.com/uMuit7K0YS
— Best MMA Moments (@XcellentMMA) January 19, 2025
Diego Lima believes the opportunities are there, but they depend on many factors, including the UFC’s decisions and Belal Muhammad’s performance in May. But in the world of MMA, where surprises are the norm, anything is possible.
Conclusion: A Story Yet to Be Completed
Charles Oliveira remains a dangerous fighter, capable of turning the tide at any moment. Islam Makhachev seems like an unbeatable king, but new challenges are on the horizon. And Ilia Topuria, the new contender, adds an extra layer of excitement to this story.
In the end, this isn’t just a story about a fight. It’s a story about ambition, challenge, and the dream of returning to the top. And stories like these are what make mixed martial arts the most thrilling sport of all.
