Having fought both Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria, Charles Oliveira gave his prediction for their potential title fight.
Oliveira (35-11 MMA, 23-11 UFC) was edged out in a split decision loss to Tsarukyan at UFC 300 last April. He then rebounded with a five-round decision win over Michael Chandler at UFC 309, which earned him a vacant lightweight title fight against Topuria at UFC 317 in June. Oliveira was knocked out in Round 1.
Although Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) initially dismissed Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) as his next title challenger, it appears they could end up fighting next – as hinted by both Chael Sonnen and Tsarukyan himself.
“Man, that’s a fight between a solid grappler and a guy with really good striking,” Oliveira said in an interview with Thunderpick. “I think Arman is a very dangerous dude, super tough. But honestly, I think Topuria has a better shot at winning. Still, it’s going to be a hell of a fight.”
Oliveira has opted to jump right back on the horse after suffering the first clean knockout loss of his career. He meets Rafael Fiziev (13-4 MMA, 7-4 UFC) in the UFC Fight Night 261 main event in Rio de Janeiro on Oct. 11. The event takes place at Farmasi Arena and streams on ESPN+.
