Charles Oliveira showcased his resilience and determination at UFC 289, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. Despite a previous defeat to Islam Makhachev, Oliveira bounced back in an emphatic manner, silencing any doubts about his abilities.
Throughout his tenure as the lightweight champion, Oliveira had displayed his skills by conquering numerous top-ranked opponents. However, his loss to Makhachev at UFC 280 raised concerns about his ability to handle adversity. Makhachev’s victory showcased his superiority both on the feet and on the ground, submitting Oliveira with relative ease.
In his return to the octagon at UFC 289, Oliveira unleashed his frustrations on Beneil Dariush, securing a remarkable first-round stoppage and solidifying his position at the top of the division. Daniel Cormier, a UFC Hall of Famer, acknowledged Oliveira’s remarkable performance and compared him favorably to Makhachev.
Cormier stated, “Charles Oliveira proved tonight that if he is not the champion, he is just slightly below Islam as the second level. He’s 1A to Islam Makhachev’s champion.” This recognition reflects Oliveira’s ability to compete at an elite level and positions him as a top contender.
While Dariush was promised a title shot with a victory due to his impressive winning streak, Oliveira faced uncertainties regarding his path to another title opportunity. However, his victory over Dariush, combined with previous wins against Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, has thrust him back into contention.
Cormier expressed his belief that Oliveira’s dominant performance warrants a rematch with Makhachev in Abu Dhabi, predicting an even more compelling fight. With Oliveira now possessing firsthand experience against Makhachev, he has the chance to prove himself as one of the best fighters in the world.
Although Makhachev is expected to defend his title in October, Oliveira’s commanding victory solidifies his position as the division’s top contender. Regardless of the outcome of the Poirier-Gaethje rematch in July, Oliveira’s remarkable display has positioned him as a deserving challenger.
Oliveira’s performance also highlighted his exceptional record, having stopped 20 opponents inside the UFC octagon. At only 33 or 34 years old, Oliveira still has plenty of time to further etch his name in the record books. Cormier hailed Oliveira as a tremendous fighter, emphasizing his potential for greatness in the years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about lightweight division
Q: What did Charles Oliveira prove with his win at UFC 289?
A: Charles Oliveira proved that he is a top contender in the lightweight division and solidified his position as a championship-level fighter.
Q: Who did Charles Oliveira lose to in his previous fight?
A: Charles Oliveira lost to Islam Makhachev in a one-sided fight at UFC 280.
Q: How did Oliveira’s win over Beneil Dariush impact his standing in the division?
A: Oliveira’s dominant win over Beneil Dariush elevated him to the status of a top contender in the lightweight division and positioned him for a potential rematch with Islam Makhachev.
Q: What did Daniel Cormier say about Charles Oliveira’s performance?
A: Daniel Cormier praised Oliveira’s performance, stating that if he is not the champion, he is just slightly below Islam Makhachev and considered 1A to Makhachev’s champion status.
Q: Will Charles Oliveira get a rematch with Islam Makhachev?
A: There are indications that Charles Oliveira will likely get a rematch with Islam Makhachev in Abu Dhabi, providing an opportunity for a more competitive fight.
Q: How does Oliveira’s win affect his chances of a title shot?
A: Oliveira’s impressive victory over Dariush strengthens his case for a title shot in the lightweight division, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming Poirier-Gaethje rematch.
More about lightweight division
- UFC 289: Charles Oliveira Makes a Statement with Dominant Win
- Charles Oliveira’s UFC Fighter Profile
- Islam Makhachev’s UFC Fighter Profile
- Daniel Cormier’s YouTube Channel
