“I Kind of Learned How to Play the Game”: Despite Initial Reluctance, Charles Oliveira Details How He Ended Up Taking the Rematch Against Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi

Charles Oliveira is a man on a mission to reclaim what he once held. He showcased his menacing skills by swiftly dispatching Beneil Dariush in just one round, shattering the latter’s remarkable eight-fight win streak. ‘Do Bronx’ proved he’s still a force to be reckoned with in the division.

Oliveira now aims to ride this momentum into his highly anticipated rematch with Islam Makhachev at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. Their previous clash ended with Makhachev securing a second-round submission to capture the vacant UFC lightweight title. In a recent interview with James Lynch, Oliveira shared insights into the upcoming rematch and the reason behind his change of heart to accept the fight.

Charles Oliveira accepts a rematch with Islam Makhachev for this reason

Their first encounter took place at UFC 280. Oliveira initially showed promise but fell victim to Makhachev’s well-timed check hook during an attempted flying knee. The Dagestani capitalized on Oliveira’s dazed state, swiftly submitting him for the victory.

Oliveira was questioned about his initial reluctance to accept a rematch in October, to which he replied, “With 12 years in the game, I just kind of learned how to play the game. I knew that there was a UFC in Sao Paulo. I just wanted to shoot my shot and see if it would work, but here we are.”

Regarding the fairness of fighting Makhachev in Abu Dhabi, a location that may heavily favor his opponent, Oliveira acknowledged the dynamics. But affirmed his unwavering pursuit of the championship belt, stating, “You know, I don’t necessarily think it’s fair, but it’s the game. You know that’s where the champion is, he calls the shots, but I’m coming back for my belt.”

Now, in Abu Dhabi, the stage has been set once again, with the title up for grabs. And both fighters are determined to seize it. They are both fired up and ready to showcase who reigns supreme in the lightweight division.

Who holds the advantage going into the rematch?

Oliveira holds UFC records for the most finishes and submission wins, making him a formidable opponent. He held an impeccable record and encountered championship triumph by winning the crown in 2021, defeating Michael Chandler. Later that same year, he successfully defended his title against Dustin Poirier, and subsequently over Justin Gaethje. Nonetheless, he encountered a setback when he had to relinquish the title just before his fight due to a weight miss.

However, in their previous encounter, Makhachev proved unstoppable, clinching victory via an arm-triangle submission in the second round.

Since that fateful night in Abu Dhabi, both fighters have seen action once. Makhachev extended his record to 24-1 by defending the lightweight title against Alexander Volkanovski in a champion versus champion-bout in Australia. Oliveira, on the other hand, returned to the Octagon in June, facing the dangerous Beneil Dariush. Despite Dariush’s impressive win streak, Oliveira dominated, securing a first-round victory with precise striking.

Read More: Islam Makhachev Spells Trouble for Charles Oliveira While Also Mocking Khabib Nurmagomedov for UFC 280 Incident

Now, fans eagerly anticipate the rematch, a clash of contrasting styles. Following last year’s victory, Makhachev enters as the favorite, but Oliveira relishes the opportunity to defy the odds once more. The stage is set for a battle that promises to be nothing short of thrilling. Do you think Oliveira has what it takes to dethrone Makhachev? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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