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Fifteen years. Forty-six fights. Blood, sweat, and tears left inside countless cages. Charles Oliveira has seen it all. Yet, sometimes, a fighter’s greatest victories aren’t won under the bright lights of the Octagon.

This week, the UFC reminded the world of that truth. Oliveira, the man known for breaking records and hearts in the lightweight division, earned a new kind of glory—one born not from fists, but from faith in others.

Dana White honors Charles Oliveira’s remarkable charity work with the 2025 Forrest Griffin Community Award

The UFC officially named Charles Oliveira as the 2025 recipient of the Forrest Griffin Community Award. This honor, carrying the spirit of a true pioneer, celebrates athletes whose charity work leaves ripples far beyond fight night. And here’s the kicker—the UFC CEO Dana White himself personally selects the winner each year, under the UFC Honors President’s Choice category.

In a statement for UFC.com, White shared, “Charles is not only a great athlete, but he’s also an amazing role model who enjoys giving back to the community.” He also praised ‘Do Bronx’s work in helping local youth in Sao Paulo, pointing to how free jiu-jitsu and education open doors these kids once thought were forever locked.

The numbers back up the narrative. Since founding the Charles do Bronx’s Institute (ICBronxs) in 2012, Oliveira has touched over 150 lives. The institute, born inside his Gold Team Gym in the Vicente de Carvalho District of São Paulo, grew from a passion project to a full-blown force for change.

By 2022, it officially earned recognition as a true institute. And in 2023? Charles Oliveira opened a brand-new space, dedicated solely to lifting underprivileged youth through jiu-jitsu, education, and even sign language classes.

Another interesting fact is that with this initiative, the Brazilian UFC star has brought his story full circle. Back when he was a 12-year-old living in the favelas of Brazil, a similar project introduced him to the sport of jiu-jitsu. And the rest is history.

In a YouTube video shared by the UFC to announce this honor, Oliveira stated, “It reminded me of my past, it’s a blessing to be with these kids. This is about showing them what they can do in life. It’s not just about the community. Life out there is difficult, the streets can be difficult. Thankfully, I can come here and talk to them about how important this is.”

Now, Charles Oliveira uses his story as a torch to light the path for others. From his base in Brazil to community events across the globe, he partners with UFC mentoring programs to spread not just knowledge, but hope.

The reward for his efforts? Not just the hardware. ‘Do Bronx’ will receive a $25,000 donation, courtesy of the UFC Foundation, to a charity of his choosing. And come June 26, during the UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at T-Mobile Arena, Oliveira’s heart will take center stage—streamed live for the world to see on UFC Fight Pass! So, what’s next for the man whose accomplishments inside and outside the cage are an example for countless others?

‘Do Bronx’ puts the lightweight division on notice as he claims it’s a title fight or nothing

Charles Oliveira stands once again at the gates of destiny. But this time, the road back to UFC gold looks more like a crowded highway during rush hour.

The lightweight division has become a battlefield, with Islam Makhachev reigning atop the throne and challengers like Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan gunning for the Dagestani champion. With Topuria’s explosive move up from featherweight, Justin Gaethje’s fiery win over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, and Paddy Pimblett’s bloody TKO over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, the title picture has suddenly become a wild, unpredictable storm.

As such, during a conversation with Portal do Vale Tudo, ‘Do Bronx’ stated, “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. ”

And when asked if he’d consider a showdown with new contender Ilia Topuria? Oliveira didn’t blink as he fired back with, “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.” So, whether it’s Topuria, Tsarukyan, or whoever dares cross his path, ‘Do Bronx’ made his mission crystal clear: it’s the title or nothing.

And yet, no matter where the rankings or belts take him next, one thing is certain. Charles Oliveira has already claimed the most important victory of all—the power to change lives, one dream at a time. Do you think ‘Do Bronx’ will be able to find himself in the title picture once more? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below!