Charles Oliveira Reflects on UFC 309 Fight with Michael Chandler
Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira is set to face Michael Chandler once again at UFC 309, a fight that could potentially lead to a title shot. With their previous bout ending in Oliveira’s victory, he is eager to replicate that success, while Chandler seeks redemption:
“He’s trying to prove that he can beat me. I’m trying to prove that I can beat him again. Let’s put that in the past and focus on this one,” Oliveira told reporters today in New York.
Oliveira Discusses His Mindset for UFC 309 Fight with Michael Chandler
Their first matchup took place at UFC 262 for the vacant lightweight title, where Oliveira claimed victory with a TKO finish. Now, Chandler is coming back with the intention of “separating Oliveira from his consciousness.” But Oliveira remains confident, saying:
“He wants to be the champ for the first time. I want to be the champion again. I’ve beaten Michael Chandler once, and I’m going to beat Michael Chandler again.”
For Oliveira, this fight represents more than just a title opportunity. He’s determined to maintain his momentum and prove his resilience. Reflecting on the energy of the crowd and the thrill of fighting in the UFC:
“A lot of people come and talk. Everybody comes here and says the same thing. They talk the talk, they say they have plans about things, they’re going to do something. This is a magical stage, a great place to be, the energy of the crowd.”
Oliveira on Possible Title Shot and UFC Records
Currently holding 19 career bonuses, Oliveira is just one bonus away from setting a new UFC record of 20. When asked about his impressive record, he simply said, “I don’t come here looking for bonuses. The bonuses find me.”
Beyond the bonuses, Oliveira’s focus is clear: regaining the lightweight title. With Islam Makhachev likely defending the title against Arman Tsarukyan soon, Oliveira expressed his drive to face whoever holds the belt:
“A fighter wants to be a champion. We want the title. I’m not looking for Arman. I’m not looking for Islam,” Oliveira explained. “I’m looking for who has the title. I will be there first row watching it. Whoever has that belt, that’s the person I want to get.”
Oliveira emphasized that his focus is purely on this fight, where he intends to bring his aggressive style:
“I’m going to be there in this fight. Pushing forward, charging forward, and on the 16th you’re going to see it happening,” he stated confidently. For Oliveira, UFC 309 represents a chance to not only defeat Chandler again but to demonstrate his skills to the fans and UFC’s top contenders.
As UFC 309 draws near, Oliveira remains calm yet determined, ready to prove himself once again under the bright lights.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
