Charles Oliveira Claims He's Willing to Put Career on Hold for Justin Gaethje Rematch
The former lightweight champion says a rematch with Gaethje is the fight he wants most, even if it means waiting for the opportunity.
Charles Oliveira has made it clear what he wants next, and that means fighting for the lightweight title again. Despite several possible contenders emerging in the lightweight division, including fighters eyeing his BMF belt, the former UFC champion says he's willing to wait for a rematch against Justin Gaethje, even if it means putting his career on hold for the opportunity.
If this fight comes together, it would be one of the most anticipated matchups currently available in the lightweight division.
Charles Oliveira Holding Out for Justin Gaethje
After experiencing ups and downs since losing the lightweight title fight against Islam Makhachev in October 2022, Oliveira seems to have found his form again after winning his last two bouts, including defeating Max Holloway for the BMF belt. Now, with his performances back on track, the Brazilian is determined to reclaim the lightweight title.
Speaking exclusively to Ag Fight's "Direto de Vegas" podcast, Oliveira claimed he wants a rematch against Gaethje, even if that means waiting until next year to face the current champion.
"I'm in no rush. I'm going for the title, that's what I want, and that's the fight I want," Charles Oliveira began, "so if it's next year, that's fine, we'll just wait. [...] I'm going for the title, and no matter where it takes place, I'll be ready. I just need the contract, the date, and the location."
Charles Oliveira Score to Settle Against Champion
Oliveira and Gaethje first met in May 2022, when the Brazilian won by submission. However, Oliveira had been stripped of the lightweight title after missing weight the day before the fight and therefore could not regain the belt with the victory. The episode is still fresh in Oliveira's memory, and the Brazilian made it clear he believes they still have unfinished business.
"There's no other fight," he said. "There's no other name. We have a history. I got cheated on the scale. Even so, I bounced back. I went out there, won, and didn't bring the belt home. He says in an interview that he had an accident a few days before the fight and wasn't 100 percent. So we have a history."
Justin Gaethje Has Momentum
While Oliveira is looking to fight for the title once again, Gaethje is living through the best moment of his career. Currently riding a three-fight winning streak, "The Highlight" has captured both the interim and undisputed lightweight titles in succession.
After finally reaching the top of the division, the American is expected to make his first title defense sometime next year, which could delay Oliveira's opportunity.
For now, Oliveira will have to wait to see what direction the UFC decides to take. While other contenders continue to campaign for a title shot, the Brazilian has made it clear that his priority is settling unfinished business with Gaethje.
