Oliveira’s Coach Dismisses Rio Retirement Rumors: 'Next 3 Fights Are Pre-Negotiated'

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Many Charles Oliveira fans were confused when the Brazilian announced, just weeks after being knocked out by Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, that he would headline UFC Rio on Oct. 15.

In an exclusive interview with Sherdog.com, Olivera’s coach, Diego Lima, broke down the negotiations, analyzed his athlete's first knockout loss, commented on some planned changes for Fiziev and assured that rumors that “do Bronxs” would retire in Rio are untrue.

"Charles already has his next three fights pre-negotiated,” Lima said. “Charles is still 35 years old and motivated for another run at the belt.”

When asked about his assessment of his athlete's loss to Topuria, the Brazilian coach prefers to acknowledge his opponent's merits.

"Charles managed to take Topuria to the cage and then to the ground. In the first exchange, he landed a strong elbow. He could have gotten the knockout right there, but Topuria absorbed it. Immediately afterward, Topuria landed a great blow, which decided the fight. So I don't think it's fair to criticize Charles. Instead, I think we must give the merit to Topuria," said Lima, revealing that Charles was out of training for the 35 days following the fight and that all his tests came back without problems.

Oliveira Won’t Lose Money By Competing on Fight Night Card

Diego also commented on the Brazilian's decision to fight in Rio and assured that, even though it was a Fight Night, the UFC would keep his purse the same.

"When Charles saw all the support he received from the Brazilian fans, even in defeat, he decided he wanted to fight at UFC Rio,” Lima said. “Since Charles is an expensive fighter typically used in numbered events, the UFC wasn't keen on the idea initially, but eventually understood his desire and agreed."

According to Lima, Dan Hooker was the first name mentioned, but he could only return in November, which is when Fiziev came up.

"What matters isn't the fighter's ranking, but the result," acknowledges the coach, aware that Oliveira will face another tough challenge. "Fiziev is a great fighter and also has knockout power. I believe he'll want to keep the fight standing. Charles has to fight in MMA and pursue what he believes will be the best path.”

After 35 days without training, Oliveira has already returned to light sparring.

"This time, he rented an apartment next to the gym, so he can be in Sao Paulo from Monday to Friday, attending all the training sessions, reducing commute time and increasing his rest and recovery time,” Lima said.

Diego is betting that the raucous crowd, expected to fill the Farmasi Arena on Oct. 11th, will be a game-changer.

"I know a lot of fans are nervous about his decision to return on such short notice, but all they have to worry about is filling the arena and cheering Charles on,” he said. “He’s super motivated and will step in the Octagon in great shape for this fight."