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Charles Oliveira is waiting like a crouched lion, ready to strike. Since his thrilling victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 309, the Brazilian lightweight star has watched as his rivals secured their opportunities. But make no mistake—he isn’t waiting in silence. The former 155lbs kingpin has now dropped a tantalizing update, calling out none other than Max Holloway.

Amid ongoing speculation about a potential rematch with lightweight god-king Islam Makhachev, ‘Do Bronx’ made his intentions known after Makhachev’s record-breaking fourth title defense. “It was a great fight… but I’m next, and he knows that,” Oliveira declared. But it seems that the Brazilian juggernaut is up for a different path as well. According to a short clip from Red Corner MMA, Oliveira is eager to take on Holloway while he waits for his shot at the title.

When a young fan asked about fighting for the BMF belt, Oliveira acknowledged the possibility: “For sure, this is a fight we have been eyeing. As I said, I want to be the champion again, but I don’t think the champion [Islam Makhachev] is fighting now. So why not fight Max Holloway? It will be a great fight.”

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As soon as Oliveira called out Holloway, ‘Blessed’ wasted no time in responding. Keeping it short and to the point, Holloway took to X with a simple question: “International Fight Week?”—suggesting their rematch take place during the UFC’s marquee event, which typically happens in June or July.

However, the Brazilian ultimately wants the division gold and is eager for his rematch with Islam Makhachev. According to multiple verified sources, the former lightweight champion is targeting a summer comeback—setting the stage for what could be a massive showdown in the division.

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Team Charles Oliveira lays out plans for 2025 

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Is Oliveira's call-out to Holloway a smart move, or should he focus solely on Makhachev?

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Charles Oliveira’s coach and manager, Diego Lima, has stepped forward with a major announcement. “I believe the scenario remained pretty much the way we imagined and wanted, with Charles being the next contender [for 155lbs gold],” Lima told MMA Fighting.

Lima also weighed in on the fact about Dana White making it clear that Arman Tsarukyan will need to face another opponent before he gets a shot at the gold. “Makhachev is our next challenge, but we know he’s the champion. We depend on him to determine our next step.” Oliveira’s dominant outing and a previously canceled bout against the Dagestani have put him right back into the title conversation, and his team is confident that a rematch with Makhachev is inevitable.

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However, since the lightweight champion just defended his belt, he will need time to recover before making his next move. Adding more intrigue to the situation, White recently teased an exciting development for the lightweight division.

The UFC CEO hinted that something special is in the works for Makhachev and the fans, stating, “As soon as we announce it, you’ll know,” with a sly smirk. So, could Oliveira get both of his wishes—a BMF showdown and another crack at Makhachev? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Is Oliveira's call-out to Holloway a smart move, or should he focus solely on Makhachev?

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