Despite his upcoming main event fight in Rio tonight, Charles Oliveira has declared his readiness to resolve a brewing conflict with a fan-favorite finisher.
The former lightweight champion is making his first return to his native Brazil in over five years to headline the promotion`s event there.
Facing Polish star Mateusz Gamrot, the two shared an intense pre-fight face-off. Oliveira needs to overcome a concerning statistic regarding his performance against European competitors in this return bout.
Nevertheless, the ex-champion has also challenged an emerging top contender who sharply criticized his showing following his shocking knockout defeat to Ilia Topuria.
Oliveira Calls Out Paddy Pimblett Following Derogatory Remarks
Just over 100 days ago, Oliveira suffered a devastating knockout loss to the undefeated superstar Topuria. Immediately afterward, he swiftly booked his return to his homeland, Rio de Janeiro.
However, his one-sided defeat to the Spanish finisher, specifically Oliveira`s tactical approach, became the subject of much debate and criticism from top contender Paddy Pimblett.
Pimblett labeled the Brazilian “stupid” and an “amateur” for choosing to exchange strikes with the heavy-handed Topuria. Now, Oliveira has offered Pimblett a fight, especially as Topuria is expected to usher in a new UFC era next year by facing a different opponent.
“Listen, people are going to say what they want to say, but let`s see,” Oliveira told Newsweek Sports prior to UFC Rio.
“I`m going to be ready. I always want to fight, and I`ll be ready to fight if needed,” Oliveira continued, referring to Pimblett`s recent comments. “…This only makes me laugh. That`s real talk.”
Charles Oliveira Envisions a White House Event Appearance
Hoping to make another run at the lightweight title after his short-notice fight against Gamrot tonight, Oliveira has already unveiled ambitious plans.
Aiming for his fourth fight in two years, Oliveira intends to maintain his active schedule next year, pledging to compete at the summer “White House” card in Washington.
And by naming a specific opponent, Oliveira seeks to “poach” a challenger from Michael Chandler — having already secured two impressive victories over the former Bellator poster boy.
Neville Whittle