“Believe in me and make money,” Charles Oliveira gives EPIC reaction to being a massive underdog for Islam Makhachev rematch
Charles Oliveira was amused by the recent shift in the opinions that will see him enter the title bout as a massive betting underdog
Charles Oliveira vs Islam Makhachev (Image Courtesy - Sportsmanor)
Charles Oliveira carried himself with his explosiveness and flare in his recent outing at UFC 289. He climbed to the top of the lightweight division until Islam Makhachev dethroned him in late 2022. “Do Bronx” made a name for himself by defeating many veteran fighters in the division and ranks among the greatest lightweight fighters in history.
After his rather convincing win over Beneil Daruish at UFC 289, fans have propelled the rematch between Makhachev and Oliveira. However, Charles Oliveira still has a chip on his shoulder against Makhachev as he enters the potential rematch as a betting underdog. The betting sites have Makhachev as a massive favorite heading into the rematch, possibly in Abu Dhabi.
Oliveira talked about his status as the betting underdog. He said, “I’m very happy when they say I’m the underdog.” He claimed to gain some form of motivation from the betting lines as it fuels his desire to achieve victory. He stated, “Those who believe in me, let’s make money. I was the underdog in this fight; so many people made money. I made money and won my bonus, and those sitting and cheering on their couches made money too.”
Although there are other challenging fights for Makhachev, like Justin Gaethje or Dustin Porier, it would be most fitting for Oliveira to get his rematch. Oliveira did not perform to his usual self in the last fight against Makhachev. However, he will look to rectify his mistakes this time against the Dagestani fighter.
Does Charles Oliveira deserve an Islam Makhachev rematch?
Following the shocking loss of Charles Oliveira to Islam Makhachev in the famed lightweight division, the possibility of a rematch remained in the minds of MMA fans. Islam Makhachev dominated Oliveira in the first fight and beat the Brazilian fighter in his own game. Hence, some have questioned the relevancy of a rematch.
Charles Oliveira destroyed Dariush at UFC 289 to earn the next title shot. However, some fans want Gaethje or Porier to get the title shot if either wins the BMF title. They will fight each other at UFC 291. Both are known for their striking skills and their ability to dish out damage to their opponents. However, the winner will get less recovery time to compete again at the Abu Dhabi PPV. Hence, Oliveira remains the rightful contender to fight for the title.
Islam Makhachev stated that he would fight the winner of the Oliveira vs. Daruish bout. Makhachev has not fought since his controversial victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284.
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Nidhin Shibu
(2536 Articles Published)