Charles Oliveira Returns to Brazil to Face Rafael Fiziev in a Clash of Titans
The former UFC lightweight champion, Charles Oliveira, is preparing for his return to Brazil after more than five years. The anticipated fight will pit him against Rafael Fiziev on October 11 in Rio de Janeiro.
This exciting 155-pound matchup was announced by the UFC on Thursday and will headline the UFC Fight Night event at the Farmasi Arena. This event will mark the UFC’s return to Rio de Janeiro since May 2024.
Oliveira, with a record of 35-11, comes to this fight after a knockout loss in the first round against Ilia Topuria in June, in the fight for the vacant title at UFC 317. Despite the loss, the opportunity to fight at home has motivated Oliveira to quickly return to the octagon.
The Brazilian fighter has not competed in his home country since March 2020. The 2020 event was held behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The last time Oliveira fought in front of a Brazilian crowd was in November 2019.
Fiziev (13-4) will seek to get back on track in his career. Although he has shown great potential in the UFC, he recently suffered a streak of three losses, including two against former interim champion Justin Gaethje. However, he managed to return to the path of victory in June, with a decision win over Ignacio Bahamondes.
Oliveira and Fiziev are currently in fourth and tenth place, respectively, in the UFC lightweight rankings.
