Charles Oliveira Gives Timeline for Islam Makhachev As He Announces His UFC Return

A dejected Charles Oliveira left the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi after his UFC 280 fight. In the Brazilian fighter’s last Octagon outing, his opponent loomed large with his sambo skills. Despite the number of comeback wins ‘Do Bronx’ amassed over his 11-win fight streak, his 10 minutes inside the Octagon decided the fate of his title. As Islam Makhachev celebrated his title win, the submission grappler was soaked in overwhelming emotions. Following this bewildering defeat, the Sao Paulo fighter decided to catch a breather and refused the opportunity to fight at the UFC’s Brazil event, UFC 283. Significantly, the lightweight fighter recently disclosed the timeline of his return, and also the highly anticipated rematch against the Russian fighter.

Taking to the fans in a Q&A session prior to the UFC 283 ceremonial weigh-ins, Oliviera spoke about fighting the next opponent who sells the fight. According to the BJJ ace, a win against such an opponent will propel him to the title shot position. Further, he discussed setting up the potential title fight by the end of the year.

Charles Oliveira unveils his timeline of return

As expected, the 33-year-old fighter was enquired about the potential rematch for the title against Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s disciple. While revealing his 2023 plans, he also stated no adjustments were required to fight the current lightweight champion.

Recollecting the eventful fight against the Dagestani champion, he said, “With all due respect, I had 10 minutes off on a bad night. I wouldn’t change anything to fight Islam Makhachev.”

Oliveira assured the fans about the probability of the rematch taking place. Hence, he emphasized, “Be sure of that, this fight will happen.”

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“I’ll fight in April or May, no matter who that is, and God will bless me with a win. And I’ll have my rematch with Islam Makhachev by the end of the year.”

Oliviera’s reason for not fighting on the Brazil fight card

Stacked by prominent Brazilian fighters, the UFC 283 card was meant for the local fighters to please the audience. However, the 33-9-1 record holder’s absence from the card was a well-thought decision.

Detailing his reason to turn down the space on the card, Oliveira said that there was no point coming in thirsty and not thinking with the head. The MMA fighter clarified if he were to think with his heart, he would have been part of the card. But, after due contemplation, the fighter decided to take his time.

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What do you think of this statement by former UFC champion Charles Oliveira?