Charles Oliveira, the former UFC lightweight champion, has not dismissed the possibility of returning to featherweight for another title run. Although he moved up to lightweight due to multiple failed attempts to cut weight at 145 pounds, Oliveira believes he can still make the featherweight limit with the right preparation.
“The Do Bronx” will headline UFC 326 against Max Holloway for the BMF title, nearly ten years after they first fought at featherweight. Oliveira admitted that moving down to 145 pounds is a challenge but emphasized his confidence in making the weight if he had three to four months to prepare properly.
Oliveira’s primary focus remains on lightweight. He explained that beating Holloway and securing a shot at the lightweight championship against the winner of Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje is his current goal. Despite this, he keeps the idea of returning to featherweight as part of his long-term ambitions.
The 36-year-old Brazilian disclosed that after a lightweight fight, he can weigh as much as 185 pounds. This wide fluctuation makes cutting back to featherweight difficult, yet Oliveira insists it is still doable under the right circumstances.
He also mentioned the possibility of moving up to welterweight for another UFC title, which he acknowledged would be easier, but Oliveira expressed a preference for returning to featherweight to chase the belt he once pursued early in his career.
Oliveira shared a vivid scenario that reflects his ambitions: winning the BMF belt at UFC 326, then capturing the lightweight title again before relinquishing both titles and dropping down to featherweight. “I don’t know if I was dreaming or just going crazy,” he said, “but we’ll see.”
This mindset shows Oliveira’s willingness to test his limits and legacy across multiple divisions. Fans and analysts will watch closely as he navigates his next steps, balancing his success at lightweight with a potential return to featherweight in pursuit of a second UFC championship.
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