Conor McGregor can not stay out of headlines regardless of whatever he does. However, this time around, the cause of the headline has nothing to do with his actions. The current Lightweight Champion of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Charles Oliveira has expressed his interest in fighting the former two weight champion.
So what date am I fighting Oliveira?
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) December 13, 2021
Conor McGregor is still arguably the biggest draw in the world of combat sports. No boxer or MMA fighter can draw the same amount of Pay Per View (PPV) buys that the Irishman can generate. He famously called the opportunity to fight him as the ‘red panty night’.
???????? vs ???????? 2
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) December 13, 2021
Hence it is not surprising that the current champion would choose to face Conor McGregor instead of any other fighter on the entire UFC lightweight division. Although McGregor is currently in the 9th position in the lightweight rankings. But his star power can eclipse his rankings if the champion is willing to face him instead of other opponents.
Charles Oliveira wants Conor McGregor Next
Justin Gaethje is currently ranked no. 1 among all the other lightweighs. But he recently spoke up that he feels ‘irrelevant’ Conor McGregor might get the title fight ahead of him. Charles Oliveira’s recent comments might hint towards Gaethje’s fears coming to fruition. In a recent interview with Sherdog, Oliveira opened up on the year he had. He was awarded the ‘Fighter of the Year’, by Sherdog.
Speaking on receiving the honour, “UFC champion in one of the most difficult divisions. I set records for most submissions and bonuses, [and rank] fifth in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. To finish that amazing year being chosen as ‘Fighter of the Year’ by one of the most respected outlets in the world, I’m so happy and moved that I don’t know what to talk about. I’m just thankful to God.”
The champion then focused on what he wants next. “Conor challenged me asking a date, and tweeted Ireland vs. Brazil 2. Not only him, but also myself and all the world wants to see that fight. So let’s make it happen. I’m waiting for him in May. It may be in welterweight, lightweight or middle weight, with my title on the line or not. Just choose and I’ll be ready.”
An emotional night for the UFC lightweight king ????
— UFC (@ufc) December 12, 2021
[ @CharlesDoBronxs | #UFC269 ] pic.twitter.com/rZfAzgz2m2
Charles Oliveira is fresh off his first title defence against Dustin Poirier. Despite early difficulties, the champ turned the fight upside down in the second round with an early takedown and finished the challenger with a standing Rear Naked Choke (RNC) in the third round to finish off the fight in style.
