Paddy Pinblett said former UFC champion Charles Oliveira was one of the next potential names for him after demolishing Michael Chandler at UFC 314 on April 12, but the Brazilian is not interested in facing Pinblett now.
Speaking to the Brazilian portal, “Do Bronx” explained why he would book a fight with “Do Bronx” and “I’m not thinking” and then Pimblett. Shootbox Diegolima Lightweight said Pinblet had a “perfect” strategy for Chandler at UFC 314, but believes Chandler has returned early after suffering a leg injury this November fight.
“I’m thinking about fighting for the belt, so there’s no reason to think about the guy below me (ranked). “He’s a tough kid. He’s been doing well, he’s fighting really well, but I don’t even think about it. All of these guys (ranked below) are talking about trying to fight and reach the top. They’re not wrong. Each sells the fight.
The photo of the lightweight title appears to be waiting to see who will appear on the welterweight strap between Beral Muhammad and Jacques de Rama Darena at UFC 315 on May 10th. Ilia Topuria inserted his name into the conversation after unlocking the featherweight belt and moving it lighter.
Oliveira originally only had two potential opponents in mind: Makhachev of UFC Gold or “BMF” title holder Max Holloway, but now cites new conditions facing another man.
“I’m going to go to the belt, and that’s what I want,” Oliveira said. “I mentioned the BMF because Islam wanted to return in October and fight in International Battle Week (June 28th), but Islam said he wanted to fight in Battle Week and I stopped looking at Max Holloway in the BMF belt.
“I want a belt, but I won’t run from anyone. I didn’t run, I won’t start running now. I’m not ready to fight those people. I respect them. I respect them, but I impose my rhythm and the game.
Oliveira proposed an interim title match against Topria if Della Madarena wins, if Makhachev actually jumps to 170 pounds and pursues the second belt. And Oliveira never overlooks the guys who knocked out things like Alexander Volkanovsky and Holloway at featherweight.
“No matter what (Topuria) is saying or not, he’s very tough and deserves all the respect in the world,” Oliveira said. “He’s been doing well in the weight class and he believes he can make things happen in this weight class, so he moved up. It’s definitely going to be a great fight.”