Charles do Bronx bets he will become a lightweight title challenger in 2020

C. Do Bronx will fight in UFC Sao Paulo, in March. Photo: Reproduction / Twitter @ufc

In a big way, Charles of the Bronx is close to having one of the most important fights of his career. Against Kevin Lee, in a card that takes place on March 14th, at UFC Brasilia, the São Paulo native believes that a good victory could place him among the elite of the category and aims to become a challenger for the lightweight title (up to 70,3kg) in 2020. In an interview with 'MMA Fighting', the Brazilian spoke about his expectations for this year.

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"One step at a time. I will defeat Kevin Lee on March 14th and then they will definitely give me a top 2 or 3. I will be the title challenger by the end of the year. There’s no denying that 2020 will be incredible for me,” said Charles.

Do Bronx also said that he was surprised by the fact that Lee agreed to face him in front of the Brazilian public, who are known for supporting the home fighters, transforming the arenas into a true 'cauldron'. Charles praised his opponent and stated that Kevin also welcomes the possibility of a victory.

“It surprised me, because nobody wants to fight in Brazil. They know what it's like. But he's a tough fighter and knows this is a great opportunity in the UFC. He knows that I have six consecutive victories and he will move up in the rankings if he wins. But I'm in a great phase. I asked for a main fight and my time has come. I want to become champion and I will definitely defeat Kevin Lee”, stated the Brazilian.

No UFC Brasilia, Charles will reach the mark of 38 fights in his professional MMA career. The athlete, who currently occupies 13th position in the category ranking, has 28 victories, eight defeats and one fight without result.

Coming from a great victory over Gregor Gillespie, UFC 244, held in November last year, Kevin is looking to move up even further in the category. The North American is currently eighth in the group led by Khabib Nurmagomedov and has 18 victories in his mixed martial arts career.