Charles Oliveira responds to Topuria's challenge: Focus on the title, not the talk

Ilija Topuria still hasn't received the date of his UFC lightweight debut, and the whole situation surrounding his fight is a big mystery. While many MMA fans expected a quick comeback and a title shot, it is still not clear whether he will fight for the belt right away or wait. On top of all that, Charles Oliveira is being mentioned more and more as a potential opponent, which created additional interest.

Although Topuria did not attack Oliveira directly, in one of his appearances on social media he told Olivera to "shut up", telling him that he had lost more than ten times and was always finished in fights. The Georgian-Spanish mixed martial artist then said of himself that he is the "champion" and the "father of the division", emphasizing that he is the real challenger.

Charles reacts

Oliveira, of course, responded to these statements, and he presents all of this in a conversation with Ariel Helwani. In his answer, Charles pointed out that he respects all fighters, but that he thinks that Topuria is not careful enough in his behavior. 

Oliveira stressed that he "respects the struggles of Topuria", but added that "he should not say things that are out of place". For him, the most important thing is Makhachev, who, according to him, is a fighter who needs to be defeated in order to reach the title. The Brazilian fighter noted that he has to focus on the belt and not on who is in his way.

Speculations about Topuria as the next challenger for the lightweight title do not stop. Yes, his record and accomplishments in the featherweight division definitely speak in his favor, but the UFC hasn't made the decision. 

While it would make sense for Topuria to get a chance, because of all he's accomplished, the question is how the UFC will decide.

It is possible that the UFC is ready for surprises and it would not be strange if Topuria finds himself in the ring soon, fighting for the most valuable belt in the lightweight division. But until official confirmation, we'll have to wait and see what this prestigious company plans.