Charles Oliveira has one goal in mind after his latest UFC win, and it’s not fighting anyone below him in the rankings. The former lightweight champion, known as Do Bronx, is demanding a shot at the 155-pound title held by Islam Makhachev. Oliveira made it clear he’s not interested in Paddy Pimblett or other lower-ranked opponents as he pushes to reclaim his spot at the top.
Oliveira, 35, last fought at UFC 309 on November 16, 2024, beating Michael Chandler by unanimous decision at Madison Square Garden in New York. The win kept him at No. 2 in the lightweight rankings, but he’s been waiting for a title shot since losing the belt to Makhachev in 2022. A split decision loss to Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 300 in April 2024 was a setback, but Oliveira is determined to get back to the championship.
Charles Oliveira is only interested in fighting for the title next:
“I don’t run away from anyone, I never have… If it’s for the title, why not fight Topuria?
I’m looking for the title. I don’t want to fight another fight just to wait for the title, no.”
🎥 @portaldovt #UFC… pic.twitter.com/FjqpwTD7rf
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 18, 2025
Oliveira Shuts Down Pimblett and Eyes the Title
Paddy Pimblett grabbed headlines at UFC 314 on April 12, 2025, in Miami, finishing Michael Chandler in the third round with ground-and-pound. Now 7-0 in the UFC and ranked No. 8, Pimblett called out Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, and Dustin Poirier in his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan. He’s said he’ll fight anyone before chasing the title in 2026.
Oliveira didn’t take the bait. Speaking to Portal do Vale Tudo, he dismissed the idea of fighting Pimblett or anyone not in the title picture.
“I don’t even think about Pimblett,” Oliveira said. “I’m thinking about a title, so I can’t be thinking about the guys who are below me. Paddy is a tough kid, a kid who’s on the rise. But I’m not even thinking about that.”
He doubled down on his goal, saying:
“I’m looking for the title. I don’t run away from anyone, I never have. I’m not going to run away now. I’m ready to fight any of these guys. I respect them all, but I’m going to set my own pace and my own game. So why not? If it’s for the title, why not fight Topuria? I’m looking for the title. I don’t want to fight another fight just to wait for the title, no. That doesn’t interest me. I want to fight for the title.”
The lightweight division is packed with talent vying for Makhachev’s belt. Makhachev has defended the title four times, most recently against Renato Moicano in January 2025 at UFC 311. Rumors are swirling that he might vacate the belt to move up to welterweight, which could open the door for others. Tsarukyan, ranked No. 1, beat Oliveira in 2024 but missed a title shot due to injury. Gaethje, ranked No. 3, is also in the mix after beating Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313 in March 2025.
Oliveira’s legacy in the UFC is undeniable. After 15 years in the UFC, he’s not slowing down. A fight with Pimblett might happen later, but Oliveira is focused on other ventures for now as he chases the title. The UFC matchmakers have a tough choice ahead, but Oliveira’s clear focus might push him to the front of the line for a shot at Makhachev.
