Since his last fight against Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira has grown into a completely different fighter.
This March 7, UFC 326 will feature two warriors who define the ‘BMF’ spirit clashing for the symbolic strap. Max Holloway claimed the belt after delivering one of the most memorable knockouts in UFC history against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300.
Oliveira’s rise from criticism to acclaim
Charles Oliveira holds multiple UFC records and guarantees a thrilling fight every time he enters the Octagon. Early in his career, fans booed him and labeled him a ‘quitter’ after underwhelming performances. He has since overturned that perception and become one of the sport’s most beloved stars.
At 36, Oliveira has won undisputed lightweight gold and accumulated more than $1 million in post-fight bonuses, proving his dedication and resilience in the sport.
The transformation before the rematch
Ahead of facing Holloway again, Oliveira explained the biggest difference since their first fight. “From that last fight to this one, I evolved a lot,” he said in a recent YouTube video. “I entered that fight with an injury. Today’s Charles is completely different. I know he’s evolved, he’s grown, he’s the BMF champion, but I am a complete fighter now. At the time, I was just Charles of jiu-jitsu. Today, I’m Charles of MMA. I’m a complete guy. Back then, I was just a boy. Today, I’m a lion among lions. One fight is completely different from the other.”
Predictions heat up
Fans remain divided on who will leave Las Vegas as the BMF champion. Top-ranked lightweight Arman Tsarukyan believes Oliveira will succeed. He predicts the Brazilian will claim the fourth BMF title with his evolved skillset and fierce fighting style.
