Summary
Charles backstage at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
On a collision course with Max Holloway at UFC 326, Charles Oliveira has a clear goal for 2026: to reclaim the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg). To achieve this, the "Blamed Lion" is betting on a component beyond his proven skills inside the octagon. One of the most popular names in the entire roster, the Brazilian believes that winning the BMF title against the Hawaiian could be enough to 'jump the queue' and make him the number one contender.
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In an interview with Ag. Fight, the former champion explained that he believes his performance against Max Holloway could overshadow the interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett , and also mentioned the situation of Arman Tsarukyan , who has been sidelined by the company.
“The UFC is a game and you have to learn how to play it or you'll fall behind. We have two guys who are going to fight for the interim belt in January and two months later I'm fighting for the BMF. With all due respect, I sell much more than both of them, I have much more charisma. Arman (Tsarukyan) should be fighting for the title, but for some reason the UFC doesn't put him there. So, whether they like it or not, I sell more than Arman. I'm going to win and have a great fight, and that way I think I'll burst the bubble and fight for the title again,” he stated.
Charles Oliveira believes he'll be next in line for a title shot with a win over Max Holloway
“With all due respect, I sell much more than the two who are going to fight for the [interim] title.
I'm going to put on a great fight and I'm going to win this fight. And if it's a… pic.twitter.com/p6T8RpJLge
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) December 10, 2025
Charles do Bronx is one of the most popular names in the UFC.
Charles celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
The greatest finisher in Ultimate history and with over 15 years in the organization, Charles has almost nine million followers on Instagram alone. Due to his popularity, the Brazilian has appeared in major UFC events, such as the legendary UFC 300.
With wins against Justin Gaethje , Dustin Poirier , and Michael Chandler , he comes off a victory against Mateusz Gamrot at UFC Rio in October of this year.
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