Charles Oliveira’s journey to becoming the UFC lightweight champion has been extraordinary, transforming him from a struggling competitor into one of the division’s most feared fighters. When Oliveira entered 2018, his UFC record stood almost evenly at 10 wins and 8 losses, including a recent TKO defeat by Paul Felder, with few predicting his future dominance. His resurgence began there, as he went on an 11-fight winning streak that crowned him champion after defeating Michael Chandler and included successful defenses like his second-round victory over Dustin Poirier and a first-round finish of Justin Gaethje.
Fellow Brazilian praises Oliveira’s dominance but singles out Khabib Nurmagomedov
Gilbert Burns, a fellow Brazilian and former welterweight title contender, expressed admiration for Oliveira’s impressive streak, describing him as unbeatable in the current lightweight scene except when compared to the retired Khabib Nurmagomedov. Speaking during a 2022 interview with Helen Yee, Burns highlighted Oliveira’s ability to finish opponents consistently on his notable 11-fight winning streak, including some of the division’s toughest fighters.
Burns said,
“I am a fan of both of them, but right now, Oliveira is unbeatable,”
and added,
“But I don’t know, Oliveira is on a different level right now.”
He acknowledged Khabib’s unique legacy, describing him as
“the guy who did the hardest thing…but he left.”
Burns emphasized Oliveira’s resilience, commenting on how the champion has faced many top fighters since a young age and highlighted his finishing ability:
“If he don’t knock you out, he submits you.”
Chasing redemption after defeat to Islam Makhachev and setting sights on UFC 317
Despite Burns’ confidence in Oliveira’s abilities, the Brazilian faced a setback in October 2022 when he was defeated by Islam Makhachev, a close friend and protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, by submission in a lopsided title fight. Since then, Oliveira has been determined to reclaim the lightweight title. His opportunity arrives at UFC 317 on June 28, where he is set to challenge Ilia Topuria for the vacant 155-pound belt.
Oliveira’s momentum was reinforced by a decisive victory over Michael Chandler in November, which put him on track for this upcoming championship bout. The fight against Topuria serves as a critical moment in Oliveira’s career as he works to reassert his dominance in the division and secure another reign as champion.
What’s next for Charles Oliveira in the UFC lightweight division?
Charles Oliveira’s path highlights a story of persistence and growth, taking him from a fighter with an uneven early career to an athlete considered one of the greatest lightweights ever. His ability to finish fights impressively has earned him widespread respect, yet the shadow of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy remains a reference point in debates about the division’s best.
With UFC 317 approaching, Oliveira’s contest against Ilia Topuria represents a pivotal juncture; a win would affirm his status as the division’s leading figure once again. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if ‘Do Bronx’ can overcome the latest challengers and continue building on his legacy as the UFC lightweight champion.