Charles Oliveira is calling out Islam Makhachev. On March 22, 2025, the former lightweight king made his case for a rematch at UFC 317 during International Fight Week. With two direct pleas, he’s pressing UFC brass to book it.
Oliveira Lays Out His Case
Oliveira spoke with confidence.
“The UFC and MMA have a lot of guys who talk a big game. I can talk because I’ve been here for almost 15 years. I’m the bonus king, submission master, the record breaker. That’s me. I want to fight during International Fight week, Makhachev too. Dana [White], Sean Shelby, Hunter [Campbell], let’s make this happen. I really want this fight. I’m chasing the belt. I want to be champion again,” he told MMA Fighting.
He’s banking on his history to justify the shot.
He Presses Harder
Oliveira doubled his push.
“I’m going to write this story one more time. UFC, let’s make this happen. This is the fight that everyone wants to see. I’m ready. Makhachev’s been talking a lot about wanting this fight so it’ll definitely be a war. International Fight Week, is this the fight you want? This is the fight you’ll get. Dana, UFC, Sean, Hunter, let’s make it happen. Just give me a call,” he added.
He’s locked on June 2025, aiming for Makhachev’s title.
Since joining UFC in 2010, Oliveira’s built a 22-10 record. He holds the most submission wins at 16 and 19 fight-night bonuses, both tops in company history. He claimed the lightweight belt in 2021 against Michael Chandler, then lost it to Makhachev in 2022. His last win came over Beneil Dariush in June 2023. At 35, he’s still a force.
🚨 Charles Oliveira calls for a title fight against Islam Makhachev at #UFC317 during International Fight Week 👀
“The UFC has a lot of guys who talk a big game. I can talk because I’ve been here for almost 15 years…
I want to fight during International Fight Week, Makhachev… pic.twitter.com/VZjl2BWFkD
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 23, 2025
Makhachev’s Current Run
Makhachev stands at 27-1. He took the belt from Oliveira with a second-round arm-triangle choke at UFC 280. He’s since defended it four times, most recently stopping Renato Moicano in January 2025 at UFC 311. The 5-foot-10 champ mixes wrestling with knockouts. Posts on X show him open to facing Oliveira again.
International Fight Week in June 2025 fits both fighters. UFC 317 could headline in Las Vegas. Oliveira’s been out 21 months, itching to return. Makhachev’s fresh off a win, set for summer. This slots in as Oliveira hunts redemption and the title he once held.
This fight carries weight. Oliveira seeks to erase his 2022 loss. Makhachev wants to cement his reign. It pits Oliveira’s submission skills against Makhachev’s grappling and power. The winner holds or takes the lightweight crown, shaping their legacy.
