Do Bronx names favorite in possible Topuria-Makhachev fight and predicts future of UFC lightweight division

Ilia Topuria wants to face Islam Makhachev in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER LUTAS

PUBLICITY:

Charles do Bronx has some interesting opinions, to say the least, about the future of the UFC's lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). The Brazilian, who has already worn the category's belt, was recently defeated by Ilia Topuria , the current champion, and believes that the next Ultimate events will be crucial for the division's future.

In response to a question from SUPER LUTAS at the UFC Rio media day, he made it clear that, in his opinion, Arman Tsarukyan should face Topuria for the lightweight title, but he also believes that Justin Gaethje should have a chance to fight for the belt. According to Charles, if Islam Makhachev wins the welterweight belt (up to 77 kg), the Spaniard will probably relinquish the throne to fight for his third belt against the Russian.

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“In reality, it’s all very crazy. I think Topuria will fight Gaethje. There’s this fight with Arman, and I think Arman wins and will be back in contention for the title… Now, in November, we have Maddalena against Islam, so if Islam wins, Topuria will move up and vacate the belt again. So, it’s a game: let’s let the division play out and see what happens,” said Charles do Bronx.

When imagining a possible duel between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria , Charles pointed to the Russian as the favorite due to his grappling skills.

"I think Makhachev has improved a lot on the feet, and he has a good chance of taking Topuria down and winning... I can't say much about his (Topuria's) Jiu-Jitsu; he's very good, very talented, one of the biggest names in the UFC today. He's a giant, but Islam has been improving a lot on the feet and has very good grappling. He's a guy who can finish, who can smother, and if he takes him down, he has a good chance of winning," concluded the former lightweight champion.

Mateusz Gamrot is a candidate to face Charles do Bronx at UFC Rio (Photo: Montage/SUPER LUTAS)

PUBLICITY:

Amid predictions about the future of the lightweight division, Charles do Bronx has the chance to return to the top. The Brazilian faces Mateusz Gamrot in the main fight of UFC Rio, scheduled for next Saturday (11).

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