Charles Oliveira's coach Diego Lima confirmed that the fighter has signed a new contract with the UFC spanning eight fights. Lima stated that the deal was excellent and that they have fights planned until Oliveira turns 40 years old. This announcement counters speculation about Oliveira's potential retirement. The 37-year-old former lightweight champion appears committed to a lengthy continuation of his UFC career. The new contract ensures Oliveira will remain active in the organization for several more years. Details about specific opponents or scheduled bouts were not disclosed.
Charles Oliveira has committed his future to the UFC after his coach confirmed the Brazilian lightweight contender has signed a new eight-fight contract with the promotion.
Diego Lima, who heads Chute Boxe Diego Lima and coaches Oliveira, confirmed the deal is in place and described it as excellent. Lima added that the contract covers fights planned through until Oliveira reaches the age of 40, signaling a clear intent from both fighter and promotion to keep one of the lightweight division's most dynamic competitors active for years to come. The announcement effectively ends any speculation surrounding a potential retirement.
Oliveira, who is 36 years old and holds a professional record of 37 wins and 11 losses, currently sits ranked third in the lightweight division and eleventh in the pound-for-pound standings. The orthodox-stance striker out of Brazil stands five-foot-ten with a 74-inch reach and has built his reputation on a relentlessly aggressive, submission-heavy style. He lands 3.35 significant strikes per minute at a 54 percent striking accuracy rate, while also averaging 2.22 takedowns and 2.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes — numbers that reflect the all-around danger he poses on the feet and on the mat.
Why it matters
- Oliveira's continued presence reshapes the lightweight title picture, where he already holds the number-three ranking
- His pound-for-pound standing at 11th underlines the global significance of any bouts he takes under the new deal
- An eight-fight commitment at this stage of his career suggests the UFC views him as a centerpiece of the 155-pound division for the foreseeable future
- No specific opponents or scheduled dates were disclosed alongside the announcement
