Oliveira ‘Will Not Be Ready’ For Makhachev Fight In October
Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira has said that he will not be ready to fight Islam Makhachev in October. The two were originally scheduled to rematch for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, but Oliveira has said that he needs more time to recover from his recent weight cut.
"I'm not ready for a fight in October," Oliveira said in an interview with TSN MMA's Aaron Bronsteter. "It's too soon, especially if the fight is gonna be there [in Abu Dhabi]."
Oliveira lost the lightweight title to Makhachev at UFC 280 in October 2022. He missed weight for the fight, which resulted in him being stripped of the title. Oliveira has said that he is now working to get his weight under control, but he believes that he needs more time to do so.
"I'm really going to be ready in November or December," Oliveira said. "We don't have nothing yet – we still are waiting. But, to be honest, October is too soon for me."
The UFC has not yet announced a new opponent for Makhachev in October. Some possible contenders include Beneil Dariush, Dustin Poirier, and Rafael dos Anjos.
Oliveira's decision to delay the fight with Makhachev is a surprise to many. The two were expected to be the main event of UFC 294, which is one of the biggest pay-per-views of the year. However, Oliveira's decision to take more time to recover is understandable. He has been through a lot in recent months, and he deserves to make sure that he is 100% healthy before he steps back into the octagon.
It remains to be seen when Oliveira and Makhachev will finally meet again. However, one thing is for sure: this fight is still one of the most anticipated in the UFC.
Here are some additional details that you can include in your article to make it more informative and engaging:
- Discuss Oliveira's weight cut issues and how they have affected his career.
- Talk about Makhachev's recent winning streak and why he is considered to be one of the top lightweights in the world.
- Analyze the potential matchups for Oliveira and Makhachev in November or December.
- Provide some background information on the UFC 294 pay-per-view and why it is one of the biggest events of the year.
- Summarize Oliveira's decision to delay the fight with Makhachev and explain why you agree or disagree with this decision.
I hope this helps!