Charles Oliveira made it clear who he wants to fight next. He called out Max Holloway and challenged him to a rematch. The former lightweight champion’s call out excited fans inside the arena at UFC Rio.
Oliveira earned an impressive 2nd round submission win over Mateusz Gamrot in the main event. It was an important win that helped him bounce back from his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria four months earlier.
After the fight, Oliveira wasted no time naming his next target. He not only called out Holloway, but also requested he put his BMF title on the line. ‘Blessed’ won the title by knocking out Justin Gaethje at UFC 3oo. He later became the first BMF champion successfully defend it after defeating Dustin Poirier at UFC 318.
For Oliveira, this fight offers a chance to avenge a past loss to Holloway. It also gives him an opportunity to capture another championship and strengthen his Hall of Fame resume.
In his post-fight interview, Oliveira made his case directly to UFC matchmaker Hunter Campbell.
“Hey Hunter, Charles Oliveira [versus] Max Holloway. BMF [title]. Let’s make that happen.”
Holloway heard the challenge and responded on his social media. He reacted with the famous DJ Khaled ‘Another One’ GIF, showing interest in the rematch.
Charles Oliveira Reflects on UFC Rio Victory
Oliveira reflected on his submission win over Gamrot at UFC Rio. He expressed pure joy about returning to the win column and silencing doubts about his return.
Many questioned whether Oliveira should fight again so soon after his loss to Topuria, considering how devastating the knockout was. However, he proved the doubters wrong with an impressive performance.
Oliveira was all smiles after his win. It marked his 21st finish inside the octagon. That number tied him for 1st all-time with Mirko Cro Cop for most finishes across the UFC, WEC, PRIDE, and Strikeforce combined.
The former lightweight champion dedicated his win to the Brazilian fans. Their energy and encouragement motivated him to bring best out of his himself.
“It didn’t matter if it would be a knockout, a submission or a decision. This is a win for the Brazilian crowd,” Oliveira told the UFC’s social media team. “I just wanted to come back, I appreciated people felt that I shouldn’t come back, for concerns with me. But, I just wanted to come back as soon as possible and you guys saw that I was right in the octagon.”
Oliveira Eyes Another UFC Title Run
Despite his loss to Topuria, Oliveira still remains confident about another title run. He entered UFC Rio ranked No.4 in the lightweight rankings, keeping him close to title contention.
His win over No.8 ranked Gamrot should keep him in good standing. Oliveira’s callout of Holloway, ranked No.3, could set up a high-stakes fight.
A rematch between Oliveira and Holloway could serve as a title eliminator, especially with the BMF title involved. The former lightweight champion believes one more impressive win could secure another title shot.
“I’m feeling good. I have no injuries, so we still want to come back as soon as possible,” Oliveira told the UFC’s social media team. “I know that one more good win will take me back to the [lightweight] title run.”
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