“Just Slightly Below Islam”: Despite Charles Oliveira’s Dominant Win at UFC 289, Daniel Cormier Derides Ex-Champ Amid Rumors of Islam Makhachev Rematch

In October of last year, Charles Oliveira faced a devastating defeat at the hands of Islam Makhachev, which not only ended his remarkable 11-fight winning streak but also cost him his championship title. However, ‘do Bronx’ proved that setbacks only fuel his determination as he showcased his unwavering resilience. At UFC 289, held at the iconic Rogers Center in Vancouver, the Brazilian phenom reaffirmed his status as a formidable force by stopping top lightweight contender Beneil Dariush in just one round.

With this emphatic victory, Oliveira solidified his position as the best of the rest in the 155-pound division, leaving no doubt about his capabilities. Following this remarkable feat, the 33-year-old received a stern word from his former Dagestani opponent, who undoubtedly still carries the memory of his previous victory. However, the Brazilian fighter remains undeterred by the challenge and is eager to prove himself in a potential rematch.

Notably, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier recently weighed in on the comparison between Makhachev and the former lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira. DC, as he is affectionately known, expressed his belief that the 31-year-old Dagestani holds the edge over ‘do Bronx’.

DC ranks Islam Makhachev being superior to Charles Oliveira

Daniel Cormier took his place behind the commentary desk for the Canada-based UFC event. Following the event’s conclusion, the 44-year-old shared his thoughts on the fights. While discussing the matchup between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush, the former UFC Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight Champion expressed his opinion, saying, “He needed something big tonight in order to merit or earn another shot at Islam Makhachev’s championship. Tonight he got out clean, he’s not hurt, he’s not banged up, he’s not bruised. So, I envision we’re gonna see Makhachev vs. Oliveira 2 in Abu Dhabi.”

Cormier further added, “As Makhachev tweeted, there are levels to this game. Charles Oliveira proved tonight that if he is not the champion, he is just slightly below Islam as the second level.”

Read more: “He Was Better Than Me Because…”: 8 Months After Losing His Lightweight Championship to Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira Comes Clean About His Loss at UFC 280

Although Islam Makhachev currently holds the middleweight division’s reigns, he has warned the Brazilian about his skills. However, Charles Oliveira has confidently responded, expressing his openness to the challenge. The prospect of a rematch between the two fighters now holds great intrigue and anticipation.

Who do you think will emerge victorious if a rematch is to take place? Let us know in the comments below.

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