Charles Oliveira could face an opponent who isn’t from the same weight class as him following frustrations.
When news broke that Rafael Fiziev was out of UFC Rio, Oliveira received call outs from various opponents.
It was reported by Ag. Fight that the UFC matchmakers are going to do everything in their power to find ‘Do Bronx’ another fight for this specific card.
Unfortunately, despite several vocal competitors, Oliveira has recently vented his frustrations, claiming that potential opponents aren’t signing on the dotted line after calling for this matchup on October 11.
Another potential option has opened up for the main event, which would see the former lightweight champion take on one of the most popular fighters on the roster.
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Diego Lopes says he wouldn’t think twice about agreeing to fight Charles Oliveira at UFC Rio
Fighting in Brazil was clearly something that meant a lot to Charles Oliveira, hence why he’s been disappointed by fighters not stepping in to face him.
A top contender in the lightweight division has put the blame on Oliveira instead, claiming that he doesn’t want the fight because of how their styles matchup.
One current UFC star who is incredibly reliable in multiple ways is the former featherweight title challenger, Diego Lopes.
Lopes recently defeated Jean Silva at Noche UFC, but is clearly already prepared to step back inside the Octagon when the promotion needs him.
The #2-ranked featherweight recently told Laerte Viana that he wouldn’t turn down an opportunity like fighting Oliveira in his home country if the UFC decides to give him a call.
“Of course, why not? Of course I’d accept, especially because Charles is a legend… And like I’ve always said man, I’ll never turn down a fight. If you think I’m the right guy to fight him and you call me, then definitely yes, no problem, without even thinking twice.”
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UFC Rio recently lost a second main card matchup
Finding Charles Oliveira a new opponent isn’t the only setback that the UFC has had to deal with ahead of their return to Brazil.
On Sunday, it was reported by Ag. Fight that Randy Brown has withdrawn from his welterweight clash with Gabriel Bonfim due to injury.
Bonfim, who defeated Stephen Thompson last time out, would have wanted to continue his current momentum in front of his home fans.
While there are other Brazilian stars on the card, losing Bonfim entirely would be a significant blow.