The fighter who faced both predicts Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria outcome

Plenty of fans are hoping Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria will square off in 2026.

Oliveira is one of the few fighters who has already faced both men.

The Brazilian star sees this as a classic striker vs. grappler matchup, with Topuria known for his striking power and Makhachev for his wrestling.

‘Do Bronx’ said to FlexCidine: “Makhachev only has one game.

“He’s going to clinch you and take you down.

“Topuria is a fighter with a lot of power. Not because he knocked me out – that was the hardest punch I’ve ever felt.

“I’ve never seen his ground or clinch work. If they stay on the feet, I think Ilia knocks him out.

“If Islam gets hold of him, he’ll finish him.

“I think it’s very, very close, but for Islam to get hold of him, he has to close the distance, which is dangerous fighting Ilia.”

Oliveira set for rematch against Holloway

Oliveira got back on track by submitting Mateusz Gamrot with a face crank at UFC Rio in October.

The win set up a BMF title fight against Max Holloway for the Brazilian MMA legend.

The rematch is slated for the main event of UFC 326, which is scheduled to take place on March 7 in Las Vegas.

Oliveira’s August 2015 bout against Holloway ended quickly, just 99 seconds in, when Holloway won by TKO after ‘Do Bronx’ sustained a neck injury.