Charles Oliveira Returns to Brazil to Face Rafael Fiziev
UFC lightweight ex-champion Charles Oliveira is preparing to fight in Brazil for the first time in over five years. The expected fight will be against Rafael Fiziev on October 11 in Rio de Janeiro.
The exciting news was announced by UFC itself, confirming this match in the 155-pound category. The fight, scheduled for five rounds, will be the main event of UFC Fight Night at the Farmasi Arena. This event will mark the return of the UFC to Rio de Janeiro since May 2024.
Oliveira, 35, comes to this fight after a knockout loss in the first round against Ilia Topuria in June, in the dispute for the vacant title at UFC 317. Despite the loss, Oliveira quickly returns to the octagon, taking the opportunity to fight in his home country.
The fighter, born in the Brazilian favelas, has not fought at home since March 2020. That event was held behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The last time Oliveira competed in front of a Brazilian crowd was in November 2019.
Fiziev, 32, will seek to get back on track in his career. Although he has shown great potential in the UFC, he recently suffered a three-fight losing streak, including two against former interim champion Justin Gaethje. However, he managed a decision victory in June against Ignacio Bahamondes.
Currently, Oliveira and Fiziev are ranked number 4 and 10, respectively, in the UFC lightweight rankings.
