MMA fighter Charles Oliveira unveiled the explanation behind his swift comeback to the octagon.
Charles Oliveira, the former UFC lightweight champion renowned for his exceptional grappling and submission skills, will return to the Octagon in less than four months. After a unanimous decision victory against Michael Chandler before his loss to Islam Makhachev, Oliveira is ready to make his comeback, this time facing a new opponent – Rafael Fiziev.
The highly anticipated fight between Oliveira and Fiziev is scheduled for October 12 at UFC Fight Night 261 in Rio de Janeiro. This will be their first encounter, marking a significant crossroad for both fighters.
Oliveira, with a UFC record of 23-11-0-1 and an overall professional MMA record of 35-11-0-1, has earned multiple "Performance of the Night" awards. His notable wins include victories over Michael Chandler and Dustin Poirier, demonstrating his ability to finish fights both by striking and submission.
Fiziev, on the other hand, is a highly regarded striker known for his explosive style. He has fought several big names in the sport and is currently ranked around #8 or lower. Facing Oliveira, ranked higher, presents a high-stakes opportunity for Fiziev, who is seeking to consolidate a career comeback after ending a three-fight losing streak in June.
Oliveira, who is unbreakable in spirit, is excited about the prospect of fighting in Brazil, calling it "magical." It has been a long time since he last fought in his home country, and he finds motivation in the opportunity to perform in front of his people and family. He requested the fight in Brazil, eager to showcase his skills in front of his fans.
Oliveira's opponent, Fiziev, is not underestimated. Oliveira acknowledges Fiziev as a serious contender, promising a thrilling matchup with significant lightweight title implications.
In late June, Oliveira was knocked out by Islam Makhachev in a title fight. Meanwhile, Fiziev ended his three-fight losing streak in June by outpointing Ignacio Bahamondes.
With both fighters eager to prove their worth, UFC Rio promises to be an electrifying event. The lightweight division will be watching closely as Charles Oliveira and Rafael Fiziev step into the Octagon.
Bookmakers have already started taking bets on the upcoming mixed-martial-arts fight between Charles Oliveira and Rafael Fiziev, scheduled for October 12 at UFC Fight Night 261 in Rio de Janeiro. With Oliveira's impressive grappling and submission skills against Fiziev's explosive striking style, this fight is expected to be an exciting contest in the lightweight division.
