Team Charles Oliveira calls dibs on lightweight title shot against Islam Makhachev amidst scarce options

The lightweight division is arguably one of the most stacked divisions in the UFC. A familiar face is throwing his hat into the ring. The coach of Charles Oliveira, the former lightweight champion, is gunning for another shot at Islam Makhachev.

Charles Oliveira‘s coach, Diego Lima, recently made waves with a bold statement about the division’s current state. He claimed there was no one to fight with Islam Makhachev except their man. This declaration comes at a time when the lightweight roster seems oddly depleted. 

Both Charles and I want the belt. Now with Arman suspended, there would be no name other than Charles Oliveira… And if you look at the rankings, there is no one to fight with Makhachev.
Diego Lima via AgFight

Lima further went on to state the current state of the top contenders. Arman Tsarukyan is the # 1 contender for the title after beating Oliveira at UFC 300. He is currently sidelined due to suspension. Dustin Poirier just fought against Makhachev at UFC 302, while Justin Gaethje is nursing a knockout loss. Oliveira’s team isn’t shy about their ambitions. They want the belt that once belonged to him.

The Brazilian’s last dance with Makhachev resulted in a submission loss at UFC 280. He was scheduled to rematch Makhachev at UFC 294 but withdrew due to injury. Now, an opportunity has arrived for Oliveira. However, Arman Tsarukyan can receive the next title shot if he participates in an anti-bullying public service announcement. If so, Oliveira will need to look elsewhere for a fight.

Charles Oliveira’s coach confident of his return by the end of the year

Fighters come and go like seasons in MMA. However, some, like Charles Oliveira, seem to have a permanent spot in the spotlight. The Brazilian BJJ specialist has been a staple of the UFC lightweight division. Having not fought since UFC 300, coach Diego Lima recently dropped some exciting news about his comeback.

Charles Oliveira is expected to comeback by the end of the year (via Yardbarker)

Lima was recently talking to AgFight. He guaranteed that Oliveira would step into the octagon before the year ended. Lima’s recent comments about Oliveira wanting another crack at the title shot against Islam Makhachev may be an indication for his next fight. If not, rumors suggest that the UFC might want to book a lightweight showdown between Oliveira and Mateusz Gamrot.