Do Bronx, Charles Oliveira is set to return to action in what will likely prove to be his final push in Rio de Janeiro. On October 11th, the former champion and multiple-time title challenger will clash with Rafael Fiziev, who looks to continue his own push for a title opportunity.
In what promises to be an exciting fight, the fans of Oliveria will certainly be behind their man in his home country of Brazil, where he hasn’t competed since 2020. This was the first event to take place behind closed doors, however, meaning Brazilian fans haven’t seen Oliveira live in his home country since 2019.
Charles Oliveira – Road to Rio
It hasn’t been easy for Charles Oliveira as of late. After a hall of fame worthy run, which saw him win 11 straight fights, 10 of which came via finish. Wins on this run included Tony Ferguson, Justin Gaethje, Michael Chandler and Dustin Poirier. Although he would lose his belt to Islam Makhachev, he would eventually compete for the title again, once Makhachev relinquished the belt. Unfortunately for fans of Oliveira, he would come up against a pound-for-pound great in Ilia Topuria, who would knock out the Brazilian in the very first round.
Charles Oliveira will once again get the opportunity to make his way to the top of the division, however, it appears that it will be his last chance. At 35 and having taken a lot of damage throughout his career, Father Time is slowly catching up with Do Bronx.
Fiziev’s Return to Form
If anyone knows anything about returning to winning ways after losing, it’s Charles Oliveria’s opponent in Rio, Rafael Fiziev. The fan favourite went on a very impressive winning run himself, spanning three years. He picked up six straight wins, half of which came within the distance. Wins included Brad Riddell, Renato Moicano and former champion, Rafael dos Anjos.
After his big main event finish of dos Anjos, however, things took a downturn for Fiziev. He would lose to Gaethje twice and suffer an injury against Mateusz Gamrot. Back home in Azerbaijan, Fiziev would snap his three fight skid, however, with a dominant win over Ignacio Bahamondes. Ataman put on a clinic to dominate the in-form Bahamondes and ultimately set up the fight with Oliveria in October.
Will Charles Oliveira be successful in getting back to winning ways? Or will Rafael Fiziev upset the Brazilian fans and pull off the victory?
