Charles of the Bronx is a highlight of the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
The most populous category of Ultimate is going through a turbulent time. While Islam makhachev is opposed to giving a chance for the title to Ilia Topuria still in the fighter's debut in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg.) and the Georgian/Spanish himself has mentioned a confrontation with Charles of the Bronx, another name off the radar may end up benefiting. At least that's the opinion of Michael Bisping, former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg.) and current UFC commentator.
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M. Bisping (photo) in an interview. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @mikebisping
For English, Justin gaethje could end up 'jumping the queue' and getting his third chance to become Ultimate champion. The American is coming off a victory against Raphael Fiziev and in the past, it was surpassed by Khabib Nurmagomedov e Charles of the Bronx in duels valid for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg).
"Justin gaethje did not fight against Islam makhachev, then that would be a new title. I think we would all approve. Justin gaethje against Islam makhachev. Topuria is being dismissive, Oliveira is talking sh*t. Topuria needs to prove himself apparently, according to the champ. Oliveira needs that last final fight to get over the hump and challenge for the belt, and in the meantime, you have Justin gaethje, a fan favorite, a guy in the company who is always putting on great fights,” Bisping said during a video posted on his YouTube channel, last Friday (28).
THAT UPPERCUT #UFC313
Justin gaethje vs Raphael Fiziev 2 is everything we expected! pic.twitter.com/v8m3hCewEt
- UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) March 9, 2025
The Hall of Famer's claim is strengthened by statements from members of the Dagestan Clan. After Makhachev's triumph over Moicano earlier this month, one of the Russian's managers said he believed Topuria still needed to test himself in the division before becoming the number one contender. Bisping believes Gaethje is on track to benefit from that impasse.
“Everything that Justin gaethje need to do is to be quiet and calm. Let these two (Topuria and Charles) keep talking, talking some shit, and Justin gaethje can come out of this as the winner, as the guy who will face Islam makhachev”He concluded.
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