Topuria 'detonates' Makhachev and surprises by choosing an opponent after Charles do Bronx in the UFC

Ilia Topuria is a former featherweight champion. Photo: Reproduction Instagram/UFC Europe

Ilia Topuria e Charles of the Bronx face each other in the main fight of the UFC 317, next Saturday (28), for the vacant lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg). But the Spaniard's mind is already working in the long term. The former featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg.) has been demonstrating a lot of self-confidence to face the Brazilian and revealed a name to face after his commitment with the 'Leão Embaçado'.

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In a recent interview, Topuria 'blasted' Islam makhachev when justifying his lack of interest in a fight with the Dagestani. The undefeated fighter pointed to another successful name among the lightweights as his next opponent: Paddy Pimblett.

“I think me versus Paddy is even bigger than me versus Islam. Even when he fights in Dagestan, people go to sleep and watch his fights the next day. He can’t even pronounce two words.” he said. Ilia Topuria in an interview with Kevin Iole.

the duel between Ilia Topuria e Charles of the Bronx for the lightweight belt was announced shortly after Islam makhachev, former champion of the category, to give up the title to fight for the welterweight belt (up to 77 kg). The decision, announced by Dana White, paves the way for the Russian to face Jack Della Maddalena, current belt holder in that division.