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After losing the lightweight title and taking a hiatus from the sport, Charles Oliveira has given a timeline for his potential return. He has pinpointed Conor McGregor as a possible opponent, though he feels the former champion isn't confident.
'Do Bronx' took some well-deserved time away from the octagon following his one-sided loss against Islam Makhachev during his last appearance for the UFC. Not only did the Brazilian lose the coveted 155lb title, but his air of invincibility somewhat faded and saw his 11-fight win streak come to a crushing end.
As he looks forward to a UFC return, Charles Oliveira called out Conor McGregor, insisting that he's open to stepping into the cage whenever he's ready. Oliveira claimed that the Irishman is "right to avoid" a matchup with him.
"I've asked for this fight and he says nothing, and I won't say it anymore. When he wants it, I'm ready... Conor McGregor chickened out a long time ago, he picks his fights. He's right to avoid me because he knows what would happen."
At the height of his championship reign, Oliveira was hellbent on welcoming McGregor into the cage. He offered him the chance to recapture his 155lb throne, but the bout never came to fruition.
After capturing gold against Michael Chandler at UFC 262, the Brazilian went on to defend his strap in all-time matchups against Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier, making his title run successful and highly entertaining.
Is Conor McGregor next for Charles Oliveira?
With both men wanting to return to the cage and compete under the lights once more, will the controversial Conor McGregor be welcomed back into the UFC by Charles Oliveira next?
Although fans' mouths would water with such a fight announcement, it seems this one is a long way from happening as the two superstars are on completely different career trajectories.
'The Notorious' may be a few months away from making his octagon comeback, but with his recent increase in muscle mass and his social media posts, it looks likely that the Dublin native will test himself at welterweight.
Oliveira has openly stated his interest in reclaiming his lightweight title, so a bout against Beneil Dariush looks like the most probable fight for the 33-year-old upon his return.
