“Lightweight is no joke” – Charles Oliveira Reveals Why Ilia Topuria Should Be More Worried Than Proud!

In a bold statement that has sent shockwaves through the UFC, former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has issued a stern warning to Ilia Topuria, suggesting the featherweight king should be more worried than proud about a potential move to 155 pounds. The revelation came on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 04:40 PM +07, during a press conference ahead of UFC 306, igniting debates across the MMA landscape.

Oliveira’s Warning

Oliveira, with a record of 34-10 and a history of dominant finishes, addressed Topuria’s recent comments about eyeing the lightweight division after his featherweight title defense against Max Holloway. “Lightweight is no joke,” Oliveira declared, his tone laced with confidence. “Ilia’s a great fighter, but he should be worried about the size, the pace, and the killers waiting for him up here. Pride won’t save him.” The Brazilian’s words carry weight, given his own reign at 155 pounds, where he secured 11 straight wins before losing the belt to Islam Makhachev in 2022.

Topuria, the undefeated 15-0 Georgian-Spanish champion, has expressed ambition to become a two-division titleholder, a goal Oliveira now challenges. The former champ highlighted the physical and technical demands of lightweight, citing fighters like Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje as threats Topuria might underestimate.

A Clash of Ambitions

The exchange stems from Topuria’s post-fight interview after knocking out Holloway at UFC 300, where he called out Oliveira and Makhachev. Oliveira, who has been on a redemption path with wins over Beneil Dariush and Arman Tsarukyan, sees the 25-year-old’s confidence as premature. “He’s proud of his wins, and he should be, but lightweight is a different beast,” Oliveira added. “I’d welcome him, but he needs to be ready.”

Fans on X have mixed reactions, with some backing Topuria’s boldness—“Ilia’s got the skills to do it!”—while others side with Oliveira, noting, “Charles is right—155 will eat him alive.” The potential matchup has UFC president Dana White intrigued, hinting at a future booking if Topuria prevails in his next defense.

Implications for the Divisions

Oliveira’s warning underscores the competitive depth of lightweight, where Topuria would face seasoned veterans unlike the featherweight contenders he’s dominated. The Brazilian’s own experience, including surviving five-round wars, contrasts with Topuria’s relatively untested endurance at a higher weight class. Analysts suggest a move could either elevate Topuria to superstardom or expose vulnerabilities, especially against Oliveira’s submission game.

Topuria has yet to respond directly, but his camp is expected to address the challenge soon, potentially setting the stage for a heated rivalry.

What’s Next?

As UFC 306 approaches, the lightweight division watches closely. Will Topuria heed Oliveira’s advice and prepare for the jump, or will his pride drive him into a risky challenge? The MMA world awaits the next chapter in this unfolding saga.

Stay tuned for updates on www.ufc.com or join the conversation on X.