Charles Oliveira plans 145-lb return, claims weight issues are behind him
A triumphant performance in a lightweight bout at UFC 210 isn't stopping Charles Oliveira's featherweight dreams.
Despite failing to cut down to 145 pounds on five different occasions, "Do Bronx" believes that he still has a future in that division. He defeated former Bellator 155-pound champion Will Brooks by first-round submission on Saturday and afterward he implored UFC matchmaker to let him return to featherweight.
Oliveira spoke to the media backstage after the event and he guaranteed that his diet is under control.
"Because now I have a great gym and professional guys behind me to help me to cut, to do everything right," said Oliveira through a translator. "I showed before (I could make 145 pounds several times), the last two times some problems happened, but I want to go back to 145."
The 27-year-old Brazilian holds a 7-5 record in UFC bouts that were scheduled to be at 145 pounds, though his weight misses have put a blemish on his run with the promotion. Oliveira currently holds the No. 9 spot in the official rankings.
If Oliveira is allowed to return to his preferred division, he's looking to compete for a world championship, not just be another contender.
"I have a dream to be a champion at 145," said Oliveira.