"My real goal has always been Islam. But since he decided to run away, my opponent became Charles. Listen, I think Makhachev made a great decision [keeping the title in lightweight and moving up to welterweight].
If the UFC matchmakers had offered him a fight with Justin Gaethje, he would have stayed in lightweight. But when I moved up from featherweight, Islam said: “I don’t want to take too much risk, so I will move up to welterweight and try to win another title.” Makhachev knows that I am dangerous and can put him to sleep. Even Khabib knows,” Topuria quotes Championship Rounds.
Let us remind you that Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira at the end of June and won the vacant title in the division up to 70 kg.