UFC 280: Charles Oliveira eyes title fight with Conor McGregor if he beats Islam Makhachev

Charles Oliveira wants to face Conor McGregor in the first defence of his second reign as UFC lightweight champion if he manages to defeat Islam Makhachev for the vacant title.

The Brazilian will be back in Octagon in a little over a month’s time.

Oliveira, the No.1-ranked lightweight in the world, will headline the UFC’s return to Abu Dhabi on October 22.

‘Do Bronx’ will be bidding to win back the 155lb belt he lost on the scales after he failed to make weight for his title defence against former interim champion Justin Gaethje.

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Standing in his way however will be the formidable Makhachev, who has beaten each of his last ten opponents.

Oliveira’s debut in the Middle East will be his first since his emphatic victory over Gaethje, who he expertly submitted in May at UFC 274 in Phoenix.

He has previously exchanged words with McGregor in the past, although the two have never crossed paths up until now.

However, the 32-year-old is still hopeful of fighting ‘The Notorious’ and believes he would be the ideal dance partner for a future homecoming bout.

That is of course if everything goes according to plan in a few weeks’ time, however.

Oliveira told ESPN: “I like the narrative.

“It would be perfect. We’ve been asking for this fight in Brazil so hopefully, it works out. I really do [think it will happen next year].

“That’s the sole reason why I accepted this fight [with Makhachev]. I know the more victories, the better the chances so this is a step towards that fight. 

“I’d like to leave the Octagon already knowing who I’d be fighting next. I’d advise [McGregor] to take very good care of what words he uses [in Brazil], especially when referring to me.”

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