5 fights that could be next for Charles Oliveira
At UFC 274, Charles Oliveira once again proved that he is the top guy in the lightweight division. He submitted Justin Gaethje in the first round to extend his win streak to an astounding 11 straight fights. However, the day prior to the bout, Oliveira was stripped of the lightweight title after missing weight for the fight.
It has taken @CharlesDoBronxs less than one 5-round fight to finish Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, AND Justin Gaethje 😱
19 minutes and 43 seconds, that is something else 🙌
(h/t @AdamCatterall) https://t.co/BzXNmKJXtA
These factors complete plenty of intrigue regarding who Oliveira will face next. He has beaten a number of top competitors in the division, and other top fighters at 155 lbs already appear to be paired up in fights. There are also some big names set to return from injury.
All this means there are plenty of options for the Brazilian to face in his next fight. You would imagine it would be for the vacant lightweight belt, but beyond that, few things are for certain. Here are five fights that could be next for Charles Oliveira:
#5. Charles Oliveira vs. Alexander Volkanovski
In the press conference following Charles Oliveira's win, Dana White was questioned about Alexander Volkanovski potentially moving up a division. White isn't always particularly keen on moves like this but indicated that he would be interested in the featherweight champion one day fighting at lightweight.
Dana White says @alexvolkanovski could get a title shot in his first fight at lightweight 🏆
“If he continues to win and dominate [at featherweight] and he wants to move up to [lightweight], he could take on the champion. Champion versus champion.” https://t.co/rFpNWHrE2C
He even went as far as suggesting that he could immediately challenge the lightweight division's champion. While there isn't a current lightweight champion technically, Oliveira is clearly the best in the division. Should the UFC fail to find an opponent for the Brazilian quickly, maybe Volkanovski could end up being next.
The main issue here is that Volkanovski must face Max Holloway in the trilogy bout on July 2. However, with the featherweight champion keen on remaining active, perhaps we shouldn't rule it out just yet.