Ilia Topuria is calling for a fight with former champion Charles Oliveira

Topuria is the current featherweight champion of the world, while Charles Oliveira is currently ranked number two in the UFC lightweight division and is the former lightweight champion.

This fight makes little sense, as the only justification for it would be a bout to determine the number-one contender in the lightweight division. However, Topuria has a responsibility as champion not to delay matches for contenders in his own division. With former champion Alexander Volkanovski seeking a title shot, it would be far more logical for Topuria to face him.

Topuria has defended his title only once so far, and any move up in weight should follow the usual progression—by clearing out the contenders in his division, which he has yet to accomplish.