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Charles Oliveira is one of the most exciting and talented fighters in the UFC. His journey to the lightweight title has been marked by incredible fights and remarkable comebacks. In this article, we explore the top five fights that defined his path to becoming the UFC champion.
1. Oliveira vs. Jim Miller (2015)
This fight was a turning point for Oliveira. Known for his submission skills, Oliveira showcased his ground game by submitting Jim Miller via submission in the third round. This victory put him on the map as a serious contender in the lightweight division.
2. Oliveira vs. Kevin Lee (2017)
In a fight that displayed Oliveira’s resilience, he faced Kevin Lee and was knocked down early. Demonstrating incredible heart, Oliveira recovered and secured a submission victory in the third round. This win highlighted his ability to overcome adversity and improve his standing in the division.
3. Oliveira vs. Tony Ferguson (2020)
This bout was a brutal test of Oliveira’s endurance and skill. Despite suffering a tough first round, Oliveira kept fighting and eventually submitted Ferguson with a rear-naked choke in the third round. The victory earned him a title shot and proved his resilience and submission prowess.
4. Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler (2022)
This intense fight was a back-and-forth battle that culminated in Oliveira winning via submission in the second round. The fight was a showcase of Oliveira’s striking, grappling, and fighting spirit, earning him the interim lightweight title and setting the stage for his eventual undisputed championship.
5. Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev (2022)
In a highly anticipated bout, Oliveira faced Islam Makhachev for the undisputed lightweight championship. Oliveira displayed incredible resilience, but ultimately lost via submission in the second round. Despite the defeat, this fight cemented Oliveira’s status as a top contender and a fighter capable of competing at the highest level.
These five fights represent the key moments in Charles Oliveira’s journey to UFC gold. His resilience, skill, and determination have made him a fan favorite and a true champion in the making.