Fans in Abu Dhabi sing happy birthday to Charles Oliveira ahead of Islam Makhachev fight

Charles Oliveira was serenaded with "Happy Birthday" by an energetic crowd at Yas Mall on Wednesday night, before the former lightweight champion vowed to knock out Islam Makhachev in their headline title bout at UFC 280 on Saturday.

The Brazilian, who celebrated his 33rd birthday in Abu Dhabi on Monday, faces off against Makhachev at the top of the bill at Etihad Arena.

On Wednesday night, the two contenders wowed fans at the open workouts – the first such event in the capital since the Covid-19 pandemic – before each shared their thoughts on the weekend’s highly anticipated clash.

Out last on the temporary canvas at Yas Mall, Oliveira smiled and tapped his chest in recognition of the birthday wishes, and then said: “I’m 100 per cent. I was born for this. I was chosen. I’m enlightened.

"I know you guys are rooting for him, but I’m going to knock out Islam Makhachev first round.”

Charles Oliveira takes part in an open workout at Yas Mall ahead of his title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Makhachev, meanwhile, remains a firm favourite in the UAE and throughout the region. The Dagestan native, a long-time friend and teammate of the hugely popular former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, gave those in attendance a glimpse of what to expect on Saturday night as he worked out with some teammates.

Taking the microphone afterwards, and with Nurmagomedov watching on, Makhachev said carrying his teammate’s legacy did not mean any extra pressure.

“Nothing [in terms of] pressure. Because look at all these people. The arena is going to be full and all these people will be on my side,” Makhachev said, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

The No 4-ranked lightweight challenger,