Makhachev’s Team Accused of Evading Topuria Amid Oliveira Rematch Speculations—What’s Really Going On?

The UFC’s lightweight division has always been a battlefield of elite warriors, but lately, a mysterious cloud of controversy has descended upon its reigning champion, Islam Makhachev.

Whispers have grown into loud accusations, with fans and analysts suggesting that Makhachev’s team is actively avoiding Ilia Topuria, the undefeated featherweight phenom who has made it clear he wants a shot at the lightweight throne. Instead, rumors point toward a potential rematch with Charles Oliveira, leaving many to wonder:

• Is Makhachev truly dodging Topuria?

• Is the Oliveira rematch a strategic choice or a convenient escape?

• Could this be the beginning of a major power shift in the UFC?

With speculation running wild, one thing is certain—something isn’t adding up. What is really happening behind the scenes?

The Mysterious Case of Ilia Topuria Being Overlooked

Topuria’s Rise—Why He Can’t Be Ignored

Ilia Topuria has been nothing short of terrifying inside the Octagon. Undefeated and known for his explosive power, elite grappling, and ruthless mindset, he has bulldozed through his competition, making a strong case for being one of the UFC’s most dangerous rising stars.

After dismantling Alexander Volkanovski in stunning fashion, Topuria’s confidence has skyrocketed. He has made it painfully clear that he wants to move up and challenge Makhachev for the lightweight belt.

But instead of welcoming the challenge, Makhachev’s camp has remained eerily silent.

Why Is Makhachev’s Team Hesitant?

Despite Makhachev’s dominance, there’s a feeling that his team does not want this fight. The accusations stem from a few key factors:

1. Topuria’s Style Is a Nightmare Matchup – Unlike many of Makhachev’s past opponents, Topuria possesses elite-level grappling and knockout power. He’s not just a striker—he can wrestle and scramble, making him a serious threat to Makhachev’s usual game plan.

2. A Loss Could Derail Makhachev’s Legacy – If Makhachev loses to Topuria, his reign could be cut short. His team may see the Georgian-Spanish fighter as a high-risk, low-reward opponent—a fighter whose stock is rising but doesn’t bring as much mainstream attention as a big-name veteran.

3. Strategic Avoidance? – Some believe Makhachev’s camp is carefully selecting fights to extend his championship run, preferring a rematch with a known opponent like Charles Oliveira rather than facing the unpredictable, hungry Topuria.

But is this avoidance intentional, or are there bigger forces at play?

Oliveira Rematch: The Convenient Escape Route?

Why Oliveira?

Rumors have intensified that Makhachev’s next fight will be a rematch against Charles Oliveira. This has left many fans puzzled. After all, Makhachev dominated Oliveira in their first encounter at UFC 280, submitting him in the second round.

So, why revisit this fight instead of facing a new, fresh challenge?

There are a few potential reasons:

• UFC Business Strategy – Oliveira remains one of the biggest fan favorites in the division. A rematch sells, regardless of how the first fight ended. The UFC might see this as a more marketable, high-revenue fight.

• Makhachev’s Team Prefers Familiar Territory – Beating Oliveira once already gives Makhachev confidence that he can repeat the performance. Facing Topuria, an unknown challenge at lightweight, is far riskier.

• Oliveira Has a Weakness Makhachev Can Exploit – While Oliveira is elite, his history of struggling against elite wrestlers makes him an easier target for Makhachev than someone like Topuria, who thrives in grappling exchanges.

Does Oliveira Deserve a Rematch?

While Oliveira is an incredible fighter, many argue that a rematch isn’t necessary. Instead, fighters like Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, or even Topuria should be in line before the Brazilian gets another shot.

So, is this truly about Oliveira, or is this a tactical move to bypass Topuria?

The UFC’s Role—Are They Protecting Makhachev?

Is the UFC Protecting Its Investment?

The UFC has a history of guiding champions toward safer fights to extend their title reigns. We’ve seen this before—fighters carefully managed to build their legacy rather than taking unnecessary risks.

With Makhachev, the UFC might be playing a similar game. As the successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev is an important asset for the company. Keeping him champion for as long as possible benefits pay-per-view sales, international expansion, and long-term storytelling.

Could this explain the hesitation to book Makhachev vs. Topuria?

What Happens If the UFC Forces the Fight?

If the public demand for Makhachev vs. Topuria grows too loud to ignore, the UFC may have no choice but to book the fight. If that happens, Makhachev’s team will have to make a decision:

1. Accept the fight and face the toughest challenge of his career.

2. Find a way to delay, avoid, or shift the narrative toward another opponent.

The answer to this question could determine the entire future of the lightweight division.

Final Verdict: Avoidance or Strategy?

The accusations that Makhachev’s team is dodging Topuria are not without merit. But are they actively avoiding him, or simply making a calculated business decision?

• If Makhachev wants to prove he is the most dominant lightweight in history, he should fight the best challengers—including Topuria.

• If he takes the Oliveira rematch instead, questions will remain—was this about legacy or about playing it safe?

One thing is for sure: Topuria isn’t going anywhere. If Makhachev’s team truly thinks they can avoid him forever, they might be in for a rude awakening.

So, what do you think? Is Makhachev avoiding Topuria, or is the Oliveira rematch the right move? Let the debate begin.