Charles
Oliveira believes Ilia
Topuria needs a lesson in humility.
Advertisement
Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title and announced a
move up to lightweight. While “La Leyenda” has always exuded
confidence, he has never failed to back it up with action. Topuria
continues the same with his lightweight move, recently proclaiming
himself the champion of the division.
Since Topuria might not get an immediate title shot at 155 pounds,
the Georgian-Spaniard’s name has been linked to a potential matchup
against former champ Oliveira. However, “do Bronx” made clear that
he isn’t willing to fight Topuria until he has proved himself at
lightweight.
Topuria was recently honored in Spain with a street being named
after him. Topuria was also asked about Oliveira’s comments and if
he would take a walk with the Brazilian on the newly-named
street.
“Actually yes, to give him a bit of culture and teach him
something,” Topuria said. “I’m sure I would, because it’s obvious
that kid hasn’t even read a single page of a newspaper. So another
question please, because this isn’t a good time to talk about
someone like him.”
Ilia
Topuria is asked if he’d go for a walk with Charles
Oliveira 😅“Actually yes, to give him a bit of culture and teach him
something, because it’s obvious that kid hasn’t even read a single
page of a newspaper.Another question please, because this isn’t a good time to talk…
pic.twitter.com/mSwS9Zu8xu— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS)
March 25, 2025
Not one for much brash talk, Oliveira found Topuria’s comments
disrespectful. “Do Bronx” believes Topuria needs to be more
respectful towards the entire lightweight division, which is
arguably the toughest in the UFC.
“I’ve been in the UFC for 15 years and I’ve never spoken poorly
about anyone… I think [Topuria] was disrespectful with what he
said… I just want to remind everyone that the toughest division
is lightweight,” Oliveira told Ag.Fight (via Championship Rounds). “I’ve been in it for years, so I
have something to say. I know the firepower I have. I think
[Topuria] needs to get into the division more calmly, more slowly.
Because there are a lot of tough guys who deserve respect.”