After a long 11-year UFC career filled with uphill battles, Charles Oliveira got his taste of gold on Saturday night at UFC 262. “Do Bronx” finished Michael Chandler via TKO after going through an arduous first round where he was nearly finished himself.
As he basks in his championship glory, the 31-year-old Brazilian also talked about what his immediate future may look like. One of the things he discussed is a possible run back at featherweight, despite his multiple struggles to make the 145-pound mark.
“I still feel like a featherweight,” Oliveira said through a translator during the UFC 262 post-fight presser.
“If Dana White gave me the opportunity to fight there in the featherweight division and win, I’d take it.”
Oliveira’s victory caught the attention of the entire MMA community, his top-tier contemporaries included. Former champ-champ Conor McGregor was one of them and had this to say.
Congrats to Olivera on becoming the 11th UFC lightweight champion.
Wonder who Twelve is…— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) May 16, 2021
Taking it as a challenge, this was Oliveira’s response.
“First, he has to pass Dustin. He’s just one of these guys that talks a lot. He’s got to beat Dustin first.
“Conor, since you’re so tough… First of all, you beat Dustin, and then come over to Brazil and I’ll put you on your ass.”
McGregor has his hands full as he prepares for his trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 on July 10th. The UFC has yet to confirm whether or not the fight will be a title eliminator.
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