Renato Moicano vs Charles Oliveira? Fan-Favorite’s Cryptic Tweet Hints at Short Notice UFC Rio Fight

Former lightweight title contender Renato Moicano calls out Charles Oliveira following Rafael Fiziev’s pullout from scheduled November bout.

Renato Moicano vs Charles Oliveira? Fan-Favorite’s Cryptic Tweet Hints at Short Notice UFC Rio Fight

Renato Moicano is ready to take on Charles Oliveira next (via X)

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Following his devastating defeat to Ilia Topuria, Charles Oliveira’s dream of reclaiming the lightweight championship belt came crashing down unexpectedly. Many fans anticipated Oliveira would take a long recovery break, but he announced his comeback headlining the UFC Rio card. Originally, Oliveira was scheduled to fight Rafael Fiziev in the main event, but ‘Ataman’ unfortunately needed to be replaced. 

With only weeks left before the scheduled fight, Fiziev was forced to withdraw because of injury, expressing visible disappointment publicly. The matchup carried immense significance for Fiziev, as it could have maintained his winning momentum after defeating Ignacio Bahamondes previously.

Now that Charles Oliveira requires a fresh opponent, several lightweights have expressed interest, including Renato Moicano, with a cryptic message. Moicano is among the lightweight division’s most popular fighters, largely recognized for his outspoken online personality and engaging comments.

Currently riding a difficult two-fight losing streak against Islam Makhachev and Beneil Dariush, Moicano is desperate to regain career momentum. He also released a Portuguese YouTube video directly calling out Charles Oliveira, urging the former champion to accept his challenge.

A little birdie told me that Fiziev got injured during training. UFC Brazil, Renato Moicano vs. Charles Oliveira makes total sense. It’s not a easy fight, I wouldn’t be in training camp but a main event against Charles in Brazil? I couldn’t say no. Let’s hype this, bug Dana White, let’s make this fight happen. I bet Charles wouldn’t turn it down. 

Renato Moicano via YouTube 

Apart from Moicano, several other lightweight contenders, including Mateusz Gamrot, have expressed eagerness to face Charles Oliveira on short notice. Gamrot, coming off a dominant unanimous decision victory over Ludovit Klein in his last fight, aims to improve his rankings.

Benoit Saint Denis, currently ranked #13, also considered stepping in but admitted that fighting someone like Oliveira requires more preparation time. Regardless of Oliveira’s recent performances, ‘Do Bronx’ still remains one of the UFC lightweight division’s most dangerous fighters.

Should Charles Oliveira move up to the welterweight division?

Charles Oliveira faced numerous early career struggles, including multiple losses and setbacks, yet he defied all odds to rise in the UFC. His journey culminated in an incredible lightweight title run, capturing the belt and inspiring fans who connected with his story. However, everything unraveled after a devastating loss to Islam Makhachev, ending his reign and leaving fans stunned and disappointed.

Charles Oliveira should move up to the welterweight division
Charles Oliveira should move up to the welterweight division (via X)

Charles Oliveira made every effort to bounce back from previous setbacks and finally earned a high-profile opportunity against Ilia Topuria. Unfortunately, Oliveira suffered a knockout loss, and at 35 years old, fans expressed growing concern regarding his long-term health. 

Despite the devastating outcome, Oliveira recently announced he feels physically and mentally strong, showing determination to continue competing. In a recent interview, fellow Brazilian UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja offered thoughtful suggestions to Oliveira regarding potential strategies for his future.

I think everybody understands when we say he’s back too soon after a knockout…And you know what I think? The (weight) cut is maybe too much. When you cut too much weight, you need to understand, all your water goes. Your brain has water. If you dry yourself too much, you will make yourself vulnerable. Maybe Charles is too heavy for that division. (Welterweight) would make it more easy for him.

Alexandre Pantoja via OverDogs Podcast 

Recently, Makhachev also chose to move up, chasing the welterweight gold, and is currently scheduled to fight Jack Della Maddalena. While his team cited legacy reasons, many fans mentioned that the weight cut was getting brutal for the Dagestani. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see whether ‘Do Bronx’ tries to go through this suggestion after his next fight. 

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