Diego Lima (left) poses with C. Do Bronx and the belt he won at UFC 262. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Following Justin Gaethje's lightweight title win (up to 70,3 kg) at UFC Casa Branca , a potential rematch against Charles Oliveira is already generating buzz behind the scenes of the division. In an exclusive interview with SUPER LUTAS , during the coverage of Bison Kombat 8 , Diego Lima expressed complete confidence in Charles Oliveira's progress and asserted that the former champion is experiencing the most complete moment of his career.
According to Chute Boxe's head coach, Charles' evolution goes far beyond technique. He believes the experience gained over the last few years has made the Brazilian a more mature, intelligent fighter, better prepared to face any challenge, and has increased his motivation to reclaim the lightweight title.
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“A new Charles with each fight. More prepared. He’s 36 years old and he’s becoming more mature, more ready, more complete, with the desire to win the belt, and I’m sure we’ll work hard and get the belt back,” said Diego Lima.
Although the UFC has not yet set a date for Justin Gaethje 's next title defense , the coach revealed that Charles' team is already working with the expectation of competing for the title again. Without setting a date for the champion's return to the octagon, Diego Lima made it clear that the rematch is Chute Boxe's absolute priority at this time.
"I still don't know the date when Gaethje can return, but that's our focus, our goal," added the head coach of Chute Boxe.
Relive Charles' victory over Gaethje at UFC 274.
Charles Oliveira submits Gaethje at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
The first encounter between the rivals took place in May 2022, in the main event of UFC 274 in Phoenix, United States. On that occasion, Charles do Bronx arrived at the event as the lightweight champion, but lost the belt on the scale, after exceeding the allowed limit for the category.
Even without the title on the line, the Brazilian delivered one of the most remarkable performances of his career. The fight began at a frantic pace, with both athletes landing hard blows and suffering knockdowns in the opening minutes.
Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, Justin Gaethje managed to stagger the Brazilian fighter on his feet. The Chute Boxe representative responded in kind and turned the fight into a true war from the very first seconds.
After surviving the most intense moments, Charles found his preferred path. In a quick transition on the ground, he took advantage of an opening left by his opponent, took his back and locked in a rear-naked choke at 3:22 of the first round, forcing the American to tap out.
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