5 reasons why Conor McGregor is a bad matchup for Charles Oliveira

Charles Oliveira at UFC 274: Oliveira v Gaethje

While Conor McGregor is yet to be officially scheduled for a return bout as he recovers from the devastating leg break suffered at UFC 264, Charles Oliveira has expressed his interest in facing the Irishman as opposed to rising contenders Islam Makhachev and Beneil Dariush.

Oliveira is an exciting fighter with a well-rounded skillset. While it aided him against the likes of Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, the same cannot be said with certainty were he to face McGregor in his next bout.

Not only is Charles Oliveira hittable, but his approach to striking bears certain vulnerabilities to McGregor's own fighting style. This list will tackle that reason and others that suggest McGregor might be a tougher matchup for Oliveira than initially thought.

#5. Charles Oliveira's defensive striking

Charles Oliveria's striking has improved drastically in recent years. While his offense is as dangerous as ever, his defensive striking remains a concerning chink in his armor.

While most fighters make use of their reach, and so does Oliveira himself, he also gives special attention to his height.

This is art 🎨

Charles Oliveira vs Justin Gaethje

🗓 : 05.07.2022
📍 : Phoenix, Arizona, USA

#UFC274

https://t.co/G4bBcP8Hhd

Charles Oliveira fights very tall, standing upright as he peppers his opponents with front kicks. Unfortunately, fighting as tall as he does not only exposes his head to overhands, but Oliveira throws straight shots down the middle, which McGregor specializes in slipping and countering.

Furthermore, Charles Oliveira himself does not move his head and fights with an exposed chin, partially due to his upright stance, but largely due to his inability to tuck his chin in.