After defeating Tony
Ferguson, Michael
Chandler and Dustin
Poirier in a period of 12 months, Charles
Oliveira was selected as Sherdog.com’s 2021 “Fighter of the
Year.”
“I’m really happy and moved by that and everything that is going on
in my life lately,” Oliveira told Sherdog.com. “UFC champion in one
of the most difficult divisions. I set records for most submissions
and bonuses, [and rank] fifth in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings.
To finish that amazing year being chosen as ‘Fighter of the Year’
by one of the most respected outlets in the world, I’m so
happy and moved that I don’t know what to talk about. I´m just
thankful to God.”
As for what’s next, Oliveira pointed to a possible showdown with
Conor
McGregor when UFC 274 heads to Rio de Janeiro on May 7.
“May would be a wonderful date,” he said. “Conor challenged me
asking a date, and tweeted Ireland vs. Brazil 2. Not only him, but
also myself and all the world wants to see that fight. So let’s
make it happen. I´m waiting for him in May. It may be in
welterweight, lightweight or middleweight, with my title on the
line or not. Just choose and I´ll be ready.”
Aware that Dana White has promised the next title shot to Justin
Gaethje, Oliveira did not deny that possibility.
“Gaethje was knocked out by Poirier, who I just submitted. He
was almost knocked out by Chandler, who I beat via TKO, but I´m a
UFC employee,” Oliveira said. “If they choose that I should fight
Gaethje next, I’ll be ready too.”
Oliveira also commented on the backstage encounter with Gaethje
that occurred shortly after his win over Poirier at UFC 269.
“To tell you the truth, I couldn’t understand his posture. He said
a lot of bullshit about me, but when he faced me he said I deserve
all the respect, that I was a real champion. A few minutes later
told he the press that he would [break my face]. To tell you the
truth, I really don’t care about all this drama.”