Charles Oliveira, the former UFC lightweight champion, is poised for a swift return to the octagon following a recent first-round loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 317. Initially taking time off to regroup after the defeat while eyeing a rematch with Max Holloway, Oliveira’s plans shifted as the UFC outlined its schedule for upcoming events.
The promotion has confirmed that Oliveira will headline a Fight Night event on October 11 at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro, where he will face off against the #10-ranked Rafael Fiziev. This matchup stands out as a surprise, considering the top-tier fighters linked with Oliveira post-title fight, yet he has been vocal about his desire to compete in Brazil.
Fiziev enters this bout with momentum, having recently snapped a three-fight losing streak with a victory over Ignacio Bahamondes at UFC Baku. A win for Fiziev would not only mark the highlight of his career but would also significantly boost his standing in the lightweight rankings.
Oliveira’s pursuit of a bout with Holloway was complicated when Holloway announced he would be sidelined until 2026 due to a hand injury. With fewer options available, Oliveira’s ambition to headline this event in Brazil likely streamlined the UFC’s matchmaking decisions.
It’s notable that Oliveira hasn’t fought in front of a Brazilian crowd since his victory against Kevin Lee in 2020, which took place behind closed doors, making his upcoming appearance a highly anticipated event for local fans.
As Oliveira aims to regain his standing in the division, this fight provides an ideal stage not merely to showcase his skills but also to reconnect with his home crowd, adding a layer of excitement to his comeback. The stakes are high for both fighters, with the potential for a career-defining moment on the horizon in Rio.