Charles Oliveira wanted to fight Islam Makhachev in Brazil before accepting Abu Dhabi date.
In October 2022, Oliveira fought Makhachev and suffered a disappointing second-round submission loss for the vacant UFC lightweight title. ‘Do Bronx’ vowed to bounce back and earn a rematch against the Russian world champion, which he accomplished earlier this year.
On June 10, ‘Do Bronx’ was matched up against Beneil Dariush in his first fight back since losing his opportunity to regain the 155-pound strap. Dariush was riding an eight-fight streak heading into UFC 289, but Oliveira wouldn’t be denied that night, leading to a first-round TKO win.
Following Oliveira’s impressive performance, the UFC hoped to book him for a rematch against Makhachev on October 21 at UFC 294, which goes down in Abu Dhabi. ‘Do Bronx’ initially claimed he wouldn’t be ready for October 21 before signing on for the date.
During a recent interview with James Lynch, the former UFC lightweight champion revealed he was hoping to book the rematch for Brazil, where he would be a fan favorite:
“With twelve years in the game, I just kinda learned how to play the game. He knew that there was a UFC [event] in Sau Paolo, so I just wanted to shoot my shot and see if it would work, but here we are.”
Charles Oliveira ‘doesn’t necessarily think it’s fair’ he has to fight Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi
At UFC 294, Islam Makhachev will have the crowd on his side in Abu Dhabi. As if beating Makhachev wasn’t hard enough, Charles Oliveira must overcome enemy territory to regain the UFC lightweight title.
During the same interview with James Lynch, Oliveira had this to say when asked if it’s fair the rematch against Makhachev is in Abu Dhabi:
“I don’t necessarily think it’s fair, but it’s the game. That’s where the champion is, he calls the shots. I’m gonna back for my belt, wherever that is.”
Later in the interview, ‘Do Bronx’ was asked if he’d rather win by knockout or submission. The former UFC champion responded by saying:
“To be fair, all I want is to win. However it is, however I get it done. I don’t care. I just want my hand raised.”
Charles Oliveira has a tough mountain to climb on October 24. Luckily for him, he has the finishing ability and championship experience to beat any lightweight in the division.
Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev plans to continue dominating the division by earning his thirteenth consecutive win.
Watch Charles Oliveira’s entire interview with James Lynch below:
