RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 11: Charles Oliveira of Brazil reacts after a victory against Mateusz Gamrot of Poland in a lightweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Farmasi Arena on October 11, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa LLC) Charles Oliveira wants a rematch against Justin Gaethje and any other fight is a step backward. That’s according to “Do Bronx,” who defeated “The Highlight” in their main event showdown at UFC 274 back in early 2022. Fast forward to summer 2026 and Gaethje is now the 155-pound titleholder and Oliveira wears the “BMF” belt he stripped from Max Holloway at UFC 326 last March. That’s why the Brazilian has no time for Top 5 contenders like Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett. “This fight (with Diego Lopes) never materialized, not even a rumor, not even a hint of it happening,” Oliveira recently told Olhar da Luta (transcribed by Bloody Elbow). “I believe I’m next in line to fight for the title. So, I think that’s my thought, that’s my focus. If I’m next in line and (Gaethje) only wants to fight next year, at the beginning of the year, why not wait? I’m not in a hurry, I can wait.” The result of this fight may help (or hurt) Oliveira’s cause. “I’m sure I’m next in line,” Oliveira continued. “It can’t possibly be any other way, right? With all due respect, I’m not looking back, I’m looking forward. I want the title, that’s what I’m doing, that’s what I’m focused on. My struggle with (Gaethje) has a history, there’s a story behind it and now he’s champion. It could be in his backyard, it could be in Vegas, anywhere in the world, I just need a call to set a date and a time.” Oliveira (37-11, 1 NC) holds UFC records for finishes (21) submissions (17), and bonuses (21)