The fight world is abuzz with the possibility of Ilia Topuria going one-on-one against Islam Makhachev. In a recent turn of events, the featherweight champion vacated his title. Making a switch to the lightweight division, it was presumed that Topuria would get an immediate fight with Makhachev. However, as days passed, things became a bit complicated. And now, adding fuel to the fire, Joe Rogan opined how the fight makes no sense!
While Dana White did not confirm Topuria’s future yet, Rogan had a bold claim to make. In his recent episode of the ‘Joe Rogan Experience Fight Companion’ podcast, the UFC color commentator shed light on the Topuria vs. Makhachev situation.
“I don’t think that’s happening… I wonder what they’re gonna do with Topuria. I like Topuria vs Oliveira. Oliveira is so tall, so dangerous everywhere, huge reach advantage. Those lightweights are real big, Islam’s huge,” said Rogan.
🗣️Joe Rogan on Islam vs Topuria:
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) March 23, 2025
“I don’t think that’s happening,”
“I wonder what they’re gonna do with Topuria. I like Topuria vs Oliveira. Oliveira is so tall, so dangerous everywhere, huge reach advantage. Those lightweights are real big, Islam’s huge,”
(via JRE Podcast) pic.twitter.com/FAMwPt7dhH
Meanwhile, Topuria’s camp has already pushed for an immediate title fight. But Charles Oliveira has issued some stern statements to the Spaniard.
Charles Oliveira Vows To Knock Out Ilia Topuria
Charles Oliveira has been around the lightweight division for a fairly long time. Coming to the lightweight division, there has been some interesting speculation about who Topuria’s next opponent will be. And while the name of Islam Makhachev has made the rounds, the former champion Oliveira has issued a stern warning.
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“Whoever I get told to fight, I’m going to fight. I have nothing but respect for Ilia Topuria, but this is lightweight. It’s the most difficult division you have ever seen and I have power in my hands. I believe in my Jiu-Jitsu, but I believe that I could knock Ilia Topuria out.” Olivera said, speaking to ‘Oddspedia.’
Charles Oliveira is open welcoming Ilia Topuria to lightweight, despite Chael Sonnen claiming otherwise. pic.twitter.com/1CQUOsjW5S
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) March 18, 2025
Thus, it is evident that things are looking quite cluttered in the UFC lightweight division. It remains to be seen how things pan out next.
Also Read: Dana White Teases UFC Fans With Interesting Ilia Topuria Fight News
