Charles Oliveira Eyes UFC Title Shot, Wants Clarity on Justin Gaethje’s Future

Charles Oliveira is aiming for another opportunity at UFC lightweight gold following his next scheduled appearance. The reigning BMF champion is set to defend his title against Diego Lopes at UFC 335 on Dec. 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, but he is already keeping a close eye on the division's undisputed championship landscape.

In an interview with Sherdog, Oliveira addressed the uncertainty surrounding current lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, whom he previously defeated. Gaethje has publicly discussed retirement while also floating a potential return for a matchup against Conor McGregor. Oliveira emphasized that the UFC needs to determine whether Gaethje intends to defend the belt before solidifying the title picture.

"The first step is for the UFC to sit down with Gaethje and find out exactly what he plans to do," Oliveira told Sherdog's Marcelo Alonso. "He says he won't fight this year, but that he would if it were against Conor. Then he starts talking about retirement. If I get past Diego, I think my name carries weight, and I believe I'll be next in line for a shot at the undisputed title." Oliveira also acknowledged that Arman Tsarukyan deserves an opportunity, suggesting that if Gaethje retires and vacates the title, a rematch between himself and Tsarukyan should determine the new champion.

Oliveira also responded to critics who argued that his grappling-heavy victory over Max Holloway in his last bout did not fit the spirit of the BMF title. The former lightweight champion stated that he is unbothered by public criticism and focused entirely on securing victories, asserting that no one has neutralized Holloway as effectively as he did.