Despite his impending main event fight at UFC Rio, Charles Oliveira is prepared to address a growing rivalry with a popular finisher.
The former lightweight champion is headlining the UFC`s return to his home country, Brazil, marking his first fight there in over five years.
Facing Polish fighter Mateusz Gamrot, Oliveira recently participated in a tense pre-fight staredown. He aims to overcome a concerning record against European opponents in this significant comeback.
Furthermore, Oliveira has extended an offer to fight a rising contender who publicly criticized his performance following his surprising knockout defeat to Ilia Topuria.
Charles Oliveira Challenges Paddy Pimblett After “Stupid Amateur” Comments
After a severe knockout loss to the undefeated megastar Topuria just over three months ago, Oliveira swiftly arranged his return to Rio de Janeiro.
Following his decisive defeat to the Spanish finisher, Oliveira`s strategy was heavily critiqued by fellow contender Paddy Pimblett.
Pimblett labeled Oliveira as “stupid” and “amateur” for choosing to exchange strikes with the powerful Topuria. Now, Oliveira has directly proposed a fight with Pimblett, especially as Topuria is anticipated to headline a new UFC era against a different opponent next year.
“People will say what they want, but we`ll see,” Oliveira stated in an interview before UFC Rio.
“I`ll be ready. I always want to fight and will be prepared if necessary,” Oliveira added, commenting on Pimblett`s remarks. “This just makes me laugh. That`s the truth.”
Charles Oliveira Targets White House Event
Hoping to launch another bid for the lightweight title after his short-notice fight against Gamrot, Oliveira has already outlined ambitious future plans.
With four fights in two years, Oliveira intends to maintain his active schedule next year, expressing a strong desire to compete at the summer White House event in Washington.
He even named a specific opponent, aiming to take on a fighter currently linked with Michael Chandler, whom Oliveira has already defeated twice in impressive fashion.
