Charles Oliveira Delays Lightweight Title Shot, Sets Sights on Future Clash with Islam Makhachev

In a surprising turn of events, Charles Oliveira has revealed that he won't be ready to face current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 294 in October.

Despite expectations that Oliveira would be next in line for a shot at the title following his impressive win over Beneil Dariush in May, the Brazilian fighter cited the timing as the primary reason for his decision. Oliveira expressed his readiness to compete in November or December instead.

Speaking to TSN about his next fight, Oliveira stated:

"So I’m going, to be honest with you, we don’t have anything yet. They are still waiting but to be honest October, it’s too soon for me. It’s too soon, especially if the fight’s going to be [in Abu Dhabi]. I’m really going to be ready in November/December, but October is too soon. But we don’t have anything yet."

UFC president Dana White had previously indicated that Oliveira would be the logical choice to challenge Makhachev for the lightweight title. However, with Oliveira unable to compete in October, the promotion will likely need to explore alternative plans.

One possibility could be the winner of the upcoming UFC 291 main event between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, but nothing can be confirmed until after that fight on July 29.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his next move, Oliveira remains steadfast in his goal to reclaim the UFC lightweight title. The belt was stripped from him after missing weight ahead of his fight against Gaethje in May 2022, and he failed to regain it in his subsequent loss to Makhachev.

"I want to be the champ again, and I will be the champ again," Oliveira declared. "So now I just need to wait. I just need to wait and see what they’re going to do. I can tell you I’m going to be the champ again; it’s just a matter of when."

Oliveira's determination to regain the lightweight championship highlights his unwavering commitment to his career. While fans eagerly anticipate the announcement of his next fight, it remains to be seen when Oliveira will have the opportunity to step back into the Octagon and vie for the title he so fervently desires.