Charles do Bronx publicly rejected the idea of facing Ilia Topuria and reiterated his request for a rematch against the current lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg), Islam Makhachev . In an interview with the Kolmenero website, the Brazilian criticized the practice of fighters who change weight classes and demand direct title fights, in an indirect response to the recent challenges from the featherweight champion, who announced his move to lightweight.
Amidst the anticipation of determining his next opponent, Charles do Bronx made his strategy clear: he seeks a fight against Makhachev at International Fight Week, an event scheduled for June in the USA, and downplayed Topuria's relevance in the lightweight scene.
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“I don’t think anyone who changes divisions deserves to fight directly for the title. I respect what he (Topuria) did in the featherweight division, but this is a different category. It’s not about coming in and dictating rules. You have to prove your worth,” said the Brazilian, who holds the UFC records for submissions and bonuses.
The former champion's stance contrasts with previous statements. He had suggested that he could 'welcome' the Spaniard to the new division, in a possible duel. The invitation, however, was withdrawn after pressuring the organization to schedule a rematch against Makhachev, who defeated him in October 2022.
Ilia Topuria didn't hold back on the criticism. In response to the statements, the Georgian, known for his confrontational style, claims to be the 'father of the division' and even questioned Charles Oliveira 's level of knowledge . Neither of them has a fight scheduled in Dana White's company.
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