Islam Makhachev just had a walk in the park against Renato Moicano. With Arman Tsarukyan pulling out of the title fight at the last moment, Moicano was roped in. Despite being a last-minute decision, Moicano was touted as a tough fight. After all, the Brazilian was on a 4 fight-winning streak. Unfortunately, things ended quite badly for him as he tapped out in the first round itself. But while Makhachev will be celebrating, he has a new threat to deal with- Charles Oliveira.
The former lightweight champion came close to challenging Makhachev. Back in UFC 300, Oliveira almost had Arman Tsarukyan tap out until things got reversed and the Armenian reigned supreme. However, Oliveira followed it up with a strong victory against Michael Chandler to re-establish himself as a strong force. Now, with Tsarukyan injured, ‘Du Bronx’ has issued a stern warning.
“It was a great fight… but I’m next and he knows that. The lightweight champion is called Charles Oliveira,” said Oliveira.
Charles Oliveira says he’s next in line for the lightweight title 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 19, 2025
“It was a great fight… but I’m next and he knows that. The lightweight champion is called Charles Oliveira.”
🎥 @ufc #UFC311 #UFC #MMA
pic.twitter.com/L1vskdNHmB
Now, a face off with Oliveira right away might be a tough ask. It will be Arman Tsarukyan next, provided he nurses his injury well. However, in case of a delay, we might witness the epic matchup that Oliveira just teased. Meanwhile, ‘Du Bronx’ was not the only person calling out Islam Makhachev.
Ilia Topuria Warns Islam Makhachev Following UFC 311
After Charles Oliveira, Ilia Topuria wanted to challenge Makhachev for his title. It has been a long time since Topuria expressed his wish to move up in weight. However, once Makhachev bulldozed Renato Moicano, Topuria could not keep calm and sent him a chilling warning.
“Islam, if I want to, I can finish you.if I want to, I can knock you out. I’ll make it look easy. Se you soon,” Topuria wrote on his X account.
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Islam, if I want to, I can finish you.if I want to, I can knock you out. I'll make it look easy. Se you soon 😉
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 19, 2025
Well, Makhachev has not yet responded to any of the callouts. However, in the in-octagon interview with Joe Rogan, Makhachev mentioned that he would be ready for anyone who wants to step inside the octagon with him. Thus, with endless possibilities teased, it now remains to be seen how things pan out in the future.
Also Read: Islam Makhachev Drops Bold Update Ahead Of UFC 311 Matchup Against New Opponent
