Charles Oliveira Considers Featherweight Move for New UFC Title Pursuit
Charles Oliveira is contemplating a return to the featherweight division for a shot at another UFC title. The 36-year-old Brazilian fighter, known as “Do Bronx,” has forged a remarkable path in the lightweight category but has not forgotten his roots at 145 pounds.
Upcoming Fight: Oliveira vs. Holloway
Oliveira is set to face Max Holloway in the main event at UFC 326. This highly anticipated matchup takes place on March 7 in Las Vegas, marking a decade since their last confrontation at featherweight.
Plans for the Future
In a recent Q&A session with fans, Oliveira discussed his potential move back to featherweight. He expressed uncertainty, noting, “I don’t know if I can make 145 anymore.” Despite this, he remains hopeful for a return, especially if it involved significant fights that could enhance his legacy.
- Current division focus: Lightweight
- Fight with Holloway: UFC 326 on March 7
- Notable past opponent: Max Holloway, fought 10 years ago
- Ideal future opponent: Conor McGregor, for legacy reasons
While Oliveira acknowledges that cutting to featherweight could be challenging, he believes he could achieve this with adequate preparation time. “If given three to four months, I think I can still make 145,” he stated.
Strategic Decisions Ahead
Oliveira remains strategic about his career. He aims to win against Holloway and then vie for the lightweight title against the winner of the matchup between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. He views these endeavors as essential to maintaining focus on his current lightweight ambitions.
Despite considering a transition to welterweight as an easier option for acquiring another title, Oliveira expresses a preference for dropping back down to featherweight. He speculated about obtaining multiple championships, saying, “I win the [BMF] belt now, I fight for the [lightweight] title at the end of the year.”
Ultimately, Oliveira is navigating a complex path in the UFC. Whether he moves back to featherweight or stays at lightweight, his focus remains firmly on his upcoming challenges and potential title pursuits.
