Diego Lima (left) poses with C. Do Bronx and the belt he won in UFC 262. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
After winning the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) by Justin gaethje, at UFC White House, a possible rematch against Charles of the Bronx It's already making waves behind the scenes of the category. In an exclusive interview with SUPER FIGHTS, during the coverage of Bison Kombat 8Diego Lima expressed complete confidence in Charles Oliveira's progress and asserted that the former champion is experiencing the most fulfilling moment of his career.
According to Chute Boxe's head coach, Charles' evolution goes far beyond technique. He believes the experience gained over the last few years has made the Brazilian a more mature, intelligent fighter, better prepared to face any challenge, and has increased his motivation to reclaim the lightweight title.
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“A new Charles with each fight. More prepared. He’s 36 years old and he’s becoming more mature, more ready, more complete, with the desire to win the belt, and I’m sure we’ll work hard and get the belt back,” said Diego Lima.
Although the UFC has not yet determined the next title defense for Justin gaethjeThe coach revealed that Charles' team is already working with the expectation of competing for the title again. Without setting a date for the champion's return to the octagon, Diego Lima made it clear that the rematch is Chute Boxe's absolute priority at this moment.
"I still don't know the date when Gaethje can return, but that's our focus, our goal," added the head coach of Chute Boxe.
Relive Charles' victory over Gaethje at UFC 274.
Charles of the Bronx submits Gaethje in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
The first encounter between the rivals took place in May 2022, in the main event of UFC 274, in Phoenix, in the United States. On that occasion, Charles of the Bronx He arrived at the event as the lightweight champion, but lost the belt on the scale after exceeding the allowed limit for the category.
Even without the title on the line, the Brazilian delivered one of the most remarkable performances of his career. The fight began at a frantic pace, with both athletes landing hard blows and suffering knockdowns in the opening minutes.
Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, Justin gaethje He even managed to wobble the Paulista fighter while standing. The Chute Boxe representative responded in kind and turned the fight into a true war from the very first seconds.
After surviving the most intense moments, Charles found his preferred path. In a quick transition on the ground, he took advantage of an opening left by his opponent, took his back and locked in a rear-naked choke at 3:22 of the first round, forcing the American to tap out.
Read More about: Charles of the Bronx, Diego Lima, exclusive interview, EXCLUSIVE, Justin gaethje, MMA, UFC
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