Charles Oliveira is taking a much-needed and well-deserved break from fighting.
After competing six times since 2020 against some of the division’s biggest names, the UFC’s most prolific finisher will take some time away from the Octagon. As rumors began to swirl that ‘Do Bronx’ would return in January to take on No. 6 ranked Rafael Fiziev, the former lightweight champion personally responded, confirming that the fight is not going to happen.
“Not gonna happen,” Oliveira tweeted. “I need a break. Thank you guys!”
Not gonna happen.
I need a break.
Thank you guys! https://t.co/RWBSurIPsg
— Charles 'DoBronxs' Oliveira (@CharlesDoBronxs) November 5, 2022
Oliveira is expected back sometime in early 2023, but for now, it appears the Brazilian submission machine will rest and relax following his second-round loss to newly crowned lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
With Charles Oliveira Out, What’s Next for Rafael Fiziev?
As for Rafael Fiziev, the surging lightweight contender is riding a six-fight win streak and is looking for a dance partner for the promotion’s return to Brazil in January. Sitting in the No. 6 spot on the rankings, ‘Ataman’ has been looking for a top-five opponent, specifically eyeing former two-time title challenger Justin Gaethje, though ‘The Highlight’ has not responded to Fiziev’s callouts.
As for the new reigning lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev is slated to take on No. 1 ranked pound-for-pound fighter Alexander Volkanovski in a champion vs. champion showcase when the UFC heads to Perth, Australia in February. By the time the promotion heads down under, we will likely know more about Charles Oliveira’s highly-anticipated return.
Until then, the 155-pound division will have to move forward without ‘Do Bronx’.
