Charles Oliveira looks to defend the lightweight title for the second time at UFC 274.
Charles “do Bronx” Oliveira is the perfect example of what a UFC champion is supposed to be. Growing up in the favelas of Brazil, Oliveira scratched and clawed his way to becoming a UFC fighter. Once he made it to the big show, the journey to becoming a world champion was long and treacherous, but Oliveira never gave up.
Nearly twelve years since joining the UFC, Oliveira holds the UFC record for finishes (18), submissions (15), and post-fight bonuses (tied at 18). Oliveira solidified his legacy at UFC 262 when he beat Michael Chandler to become a UFC champion.
Now that Oliveira has successfully defended the title, he must face the reality that the target on his back is only getting bigger. Oliveira does not seem to be worried as he continues to evolve with the rest of the division.
At the UFC 274 media day, Oliveira mentioned how he has evolved beyond his jiu-jitsu. “I’m not a jiu-jitsu fighter anymore. I am a complete MMA fighter,” said Oliveira. “I want everyone to know. It seems like guys are not getting the picture. ”
In the UFC 274 main event, Oliveira will defend the lightweight championship against the explosive and dangerous Justin Gaethje. At 32 years old, Oliveira has the chance to continue destroying UFC records and further solidify his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
Charles Oliveira would ‘love’ to defend the lightweight title in Brazil
Looking past Gaethje would be a monumental mistake and out of character for someone like Oliveira. With that said, if the Brazilian can win at UFC 274, his marketability will skyrocket. Now that travel restrictions are mostly cleared up, the possibility of Oliveira defending the lightweight title in Brazil is becoming a reality.
During the UFC 274 media day, Oliveira gave his opinion on potentially defending the title in Sao Paulo, Brazil. “I take one step at a time. My job now is to defend my title and win this fight,” said Oliveira. “However, I would love to be able to fight in Sao Paulo, Brazil, to defend my belt and my house.”
Oliveira defending his title in Sao Paulo would be an atmosphere unlike any other. Before talks of a hometown title defense, Oliveira must defend his belt against arguably the most dangerous fighter in the division. At UFC 274, Oliveira looks to write the next page in his story of fighting against adversity.
UFC 274: Charles Oliveira vs. Justin Gaethje takes place on Saturday, May 7, 2022, live from the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ. Follow along with FanSided MMA, who is on-site, for all your news and highlights.
