Published 44 days ago
Oliveira takes on Lopes: lightweight revenge match on the cards by late 2026
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Charles Oliveira, the Brazilian champion and BMF title holder, could have a historic 2026. Between a long-awaited rematch against Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title and an explosive showdown with Diego Lopes, his team is banking on high-profile, commercially viable bouts. But what will the final choice be?
To remember:
- Charles Oliveira is targeting a rematch against Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title.
- A fight against Diego Lopes is in the works, with a possible showdown before the end of 2026.
- Lopes, now in the lightweight division, represents a high-profile and explosive opponent.
Charles Oliveira, one of the most popular fighters in the UFC, is currently setting fans abuzz with his statements and plans for 2026. After a recent victory that cemented his place among the best, his coach Diego Lima has revealed the Brazilian’s ambitions: a rematch against Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title tops the list. But that’s not all. Another equally enticing option is on the horizon: a showdown with Diego Lopes.
Lopes, who has twice attempted to win the featherweight title without success, has decided to move up a weight class. A bold gamble, but one that could pay off. His spectacular style and charisma make him an ideal opponent for Oliveira, whose team is looking to arrange fights that are both competitive and lucrative. A clash between these two would promise fireworks, as well as strong media buzz.
While Oliveira and his team prioritize the Gaethje rematch, a fight against Lopes is not out of the question. The latter, now settled in the lightweight division, represents a strategic target for the Brazilian. It would be a first in this weight class for Lopes, but a challenge he seems ready to take on. The question remains whether the UFC can pull off this matchup before the end of 2026, with a schedule already packed for the sport’s biggest stars.
Between sporting ambition and commercial stakes, Charles Oliveira’s future looks thrilling. Whether it’s Gaethje or Lopes, fans have plenty to look forward to: a lightweight fight in 2026 could shake up the entire division.