Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira is currently not interested in fighting Paddy Pimblett, despite Pimblett mentioning Oliveira as a possible opponent after his recent victory.
Speaking to media in Brazil, Oliveira explained he isn`t considering a fight with Pimblett right now. He acknowledged Pimblett`s win but emphasized his focus is on regaining the lightweight title and competing against top-ranked fighters. Oliveira believes Pimblett is a promising fighter but is not in his immediate plans as he aims for championship gold.
“I’m thinking about fighting for a belt, so there’s no reason to think about guys that are ranked below me, only those ahead of me,” Oliveira stated. He recognized Pimblett`s rising status and skills but reiterated that his current goal is to fight for the championship. Oliveira understands fighters calling out higher-ranked opponents to climb the ranks, acknowledging he himself used similar tactics earlier in his career. While he believes a fight with Pimblett could be exciting in the future, it`s not the right move for him at this stage.
The lightweight division`s title picture is uncertain, with champion Islam Makhachev potentially eyeing the welterweight title. Ilia Topuria has also entered the title conversation after moving up from featherweight.
Oliveira initially considered fights with Makhachev for the title or Max Holloway for the “BMF” belt. However, his priority remains the lightweight championship. He is now open to fighting Topuria, but only if it`s for the title.
“I want the belt. That’s what I want,” Oliveira affirmed. He clarified that while he was briefly interested in the “BMF” belt when Makhachev`s return was uncertain, his focus shifted back to the lightweight title once Makhachev expressed his intention to compete sooner. Oliveira is willing to fight anyone at the top level, including Topuria, if it leads to a title shot. He is not interested in fights that don`t directly advance him towards reclaiming the championship.
Oliveira even suggested a potential interim title fight with Topuria should Makhachev pursue the welterweight belt. He recognizes Topuria`s knockout power and accomplishments, emphasizing that he is a respected and formidable opponent.
“Regardless of what [Topuria] says or doesn’t say, he’s super tough and deserves all the respect in the world,” Oliveira concluded, acknowledging Topuria`s talent and potential in the lightweight division. He considers a fight with Topuria a “great fight” if it`s for significant stakes like a title.
