Charles Fight Was the Handpicked One for Ilia Topuria, Says Former UFC Champion
T.J. Dillashaw Claims UFC Set Up a Favorable Matchup for Topuria
In a recent interview, former UFC Bantamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw shared a bold take on Ilia Topuria’s recent victory at UFC 317, claiming the UFC “handpicked” Charles Oliveira as the ideal opponent to elevate Topuria’s profile.
Dillashaw, known for his blunt honesty and deep understanding of fight politics, didn’t hold back.
Speaking on a podcast, he remarked, “Charles was the handpicked fight for Ilia.
Everyone knew it. The UFC wanted him to look good.”
The fight in question took place at UFC 317, where Topuria delivered a devastating first-round knockout against the former lightweight champion.
The result catapulted Topuria into even greater stardom, reinforcing his status as one of the UFC’s most dangerous strikers.
Dillashaw Believes UFC Played It Safe by Choosing Charles Oliveira
The idea of “handpicked” matchups is nothing new in MMA, but Dillashaw’s assertion carries weight given his experience in the sport.
The claim implies that Oliveira, despite his legacy, may not have posed the stylistic threat others like Arman Tsarukyan or Justin Gaethje might have offered.
Dillashaw continued, “You got a guy [Topuria] with dynamite hands.
Then you match him up with Charles, who walks forward with his chin up. What do you think was gonna happen?”
The criticism reflects growing sentiment that the UFC is prioritizing marketable storylines and knockout finishes over true meritocratic matchmaking.
👉 Read more: Arman Tsarukyan says Islam would’ve beaten Ilia at UFC 317
Charles Oliveira’s Gameplan Raises Eyebrows
Many fighters and analysts criticized Oliveira’s approach, including Paddy Pimblett, who called his performance “amateurish” despite it being his 47th professional fight.
The Brazilian veteran stood in the pocket with Topuria, opting to trade shots rather than use his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu pedigree.
The outcome a clean KO—was seen by many as a tactical disaster.
👉 Related: “What the F*** Was That Gameplan?” – Pimblett Blasts Oliveira
Dillashaw Sees Arman as a Major Threat to Topuria at Lightweight
T.J. Dillashaw didn’t stop at critiquing the UFC’s matchmaking.
He pointed out that Ilia Topuria’s toughest challenges still lie ahead particularly Arman Tsarukyan, the current #2 lightweight contender.
These guys don’t just swing wild. They make you work. They’ll wrestle, grind, and make it ugly,” said Dillashaw, suggesting that Arman’s wrestling-heavy approach could neutralize Topuria’s explosive striking.
Tsarukyan has long been considered one of the most well-rounded athletes in the division.
Despite recent setbacks, including a pulled title shot due to injury, his grinding style and cardio-heavy pace make him a stylistic nightmare for any striker even the new lightweight champion.
👉 Read more: Joe Rogan Made a Mistake Calling Paddy to the Cage – Says Arman Tsarukyan
