Charles Oliveira isn’t ready to call himself the lightweight GOAT just yet.
Charles Oliveira staying humble
Due to his recent success in the 155-pound division, Oliveira is climbing up many people’s lists in terms of all-time lightweight greats. And with 10 finishes in his last 11 fights, all being victories, it’s hard not to see why.
Recently, Oliveira was interviewed on MMA Fighting’s Trocação Franca, and reacted to the fact that he’s being held in higher regard with his recent success. To put it simply, Oliveira is confident in his resume, and isn’t surprised by this.
“Most bonuses. Most submissions. Most finishes. What else?” Oliveira said. “I’m breaking records. There are no arguments against facts. I’m the chosen one. That’s the reality.”
However, in terms of calling himself the greatest lightweight of all time, Oliveira isn’t ready to do that just yet. Instead, he’ll let people make up their own minds while he takes things one step at a time.
“I’m getting there,” Oliveira said. “I’m becoming one of the best of all-time. I don’t think [I am] yet. One step at a time. I’m up there. We have to keep our feet on the ground, be humble. Let people think that. What do you think, am I the greatest of all-time? That’s the question.
“My age, 32, with records of most submissions and bonuses and so many other things I have to start writing down so I don’t forget. Lightweight champion, 11 wins in a row. Of those 11 wins, only one decision. We’re happy.”
Losing the lightweight title
Things as of late have still been going good for Oliveira, but not without their hiccups. Oliveira was set to defend his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje in the main event of the UFC 274 pay-per-view (PPV). However, Oliveira ended up missing weight for the contest and was stripped of the title, now making it vacant.
The fight continued on as planned, with only Gaethje eligible to win the belt. In the end, that didn’t matter, as Oliveira again pulled off one of his patented first-round submission victories. Now, the Brazilian is guranteed a shot at the vacant strap in his next Octagon outing.
