Michael Chandler lauds Charles Oliveira’s exceptional skills and performance at UFC 289 while expressing his desire for a future rematch.
UFC 289 served as a stark reminder that Charles Oliveira, the former champion, remains a formidable force in the lightweight division. Oliveira’s unbeaten streak of 11 fights from 2018 to 2022 showcased his undeniable talent. Despite doubts arising from his loss to now-champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 280 in October 2022, Oliveira silenced skeptics with an impressive victory over Beneil Dariush this past weekend.
Oliveira secured a first-round TKO, ending Dariush’s eight-fight winning streak and positioning himself for a potential rematch with Makhachev later this year. Although the official announcement is pending, Chandler and the entire MMA community find it hard to deny Oliveira’s claim after witnessing such a remarkable performance.
During a discussion on his YouTube channel, Chandler enthusiastically praised Oliveira, saying, “Guys, Charles Oliveira is an absolute savage. Charles Oliveira versus Beneil Dariush… Dariush on a long win streak. Charles Oliveira, clearly driven to attain the UFC title. Oliveira showed up under the brightest lights, with the biggest opportunity in the title eliminator to earn another shot at the title. While it remains uncertain if he will be granted the next title shot against Islam Makhachev, his performance at UFC 289 indicates his determination to reclaim the title.”
Oliveira’s early UFC career saw him navigate between lightweight and featherweight, amassing an impressive record of submissions and ultimately becoming the promotion’s record-holder in that category. However, due to previous unexpected losses, either due to circumstances or challenging opponents, Oliveira often entered high-profile fights as an underdog. In four of his last six outings, oddsmakers predicted his defeat.
Oliveira’s journey to becoming the champion climaxed with his match against Chandler at UFC 262 in May 2021. An intense first round saw the Brazilian submission specialist in a precarious situation before making an extraordinary comeback, swiftly knocking down the three-time Bellator titleholder in the second round and securing a victory through punches.
Chandler emphasized the significance of Oliveira’s recent performance, stating, “This fight was a statement from Charles Oliveira, asserting that he is one of the best lightweights in the world. He has repeatedly proven it. Charles Oliveira 2.0, the champion for four fights, finishing Poirier, myself, and Gaethje, although losing to Makhachev. This was his chance to demonstrate his claim to be one of the planet’s best fighters at 155 pounds. The way he approached the fight, showcasing the ebb and flow, his willingness to engage from his back, leveraging his BJJ black belt, showed his calculated risk-taking and ability to handle damage.”
Chandler, currently on track for a matchup with former champion Conor McGregor after their stint as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31, is aiming to rebound from his loss to Poirier and regain prominence in the lightweight division. Although their fight is expected to take place at 170 pounds, Chandler’s focus remains on the lightweight division, hoping for a rematch with Oliveira.
“Charles Oliveira is a savage,” Chandler exclaimed. “I hope to share the octagon with him again eventually. I would like to run that one back, obviously. But the way he looked that night against Dariush at UFC 289 was absolutely masterful. Hats off to you, Charles.”
In summary, Michael Chandler admires Charles Oliveira’s masterful display at UFC 289 and eagerly anticipates the possibility of a rematch in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC rematch
Who is Michael Chandler?
Michael Chandler is a professional mixed martial artist and former champion in the lightweight division of the UFC. He is known for his impressive skills and has been involved in high-profile fights.
How did Charles Oliveira perform at UFC 289?
Charles Oliveira delivered a masterful performance at UFC 289, securing a first-round TKO victory over Beneil Dariush. This win snapped Dariush’s eight-fight winning streak and positioned Oliveira for a potential rematch with Islam Makhachev.
Will there be a rematch between Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler?
Michael Chandler expressed his desire for a rematch with Charles Oliveira in the future. While it is uncertain if the rematch will happen, both fighters have shown interest in facing each other again.
What is the significance of UFC 289 for Charles Oliveira?
UFC 289 was a crucial event for Charles Oliveira as it showcased his exceptional skills and determination. Oliveira proved himself as one of the best lightweights in the world, aiming to reclaim the UFC title and solidify his position in the lightweight division.
What are the future prospects for Michael Chandler?
Currently, Michael Chandler is on track to face Conor McGregor after their coaching roles on The Ultimate Fighter 31. Chandler aims to rebound from his loss to Poirier and make a comeback in the lightweight division, with a potential rematch against Charles Oliveira being one of his goals.
More about UFC rematch
- UFC 289 Recap: Charles Oliveira’s Impressive Performance
- [Michael Chandler’s YouTube Channel](insert YouTube channel link)
- [Charles Oliveira’s UFC Profile](insert UFC profile link)
- UFC Lightweight Division Rankings
- [Recap of Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush at UFC 289](insert fight recap link)
- [UFC 262: Michael Chandler vs. Charles Oliveira Fight Highlights](insert fight highlights link)
- [The Ultimate Fighter 31: Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler](insert TUF 31 information link)
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