Charles Oliveira's coach Diego Lima confirmed that the fighter has signed a new contract with the UFC covering eight fights. The deal is structured to keep Oliveira competing until he reaches 40 years of age. Lima stated this was an excellent deal and that fights are planned throughout this period. The coach dismissed speculation about Oliveira's retirement, saying those people will have to wait longer. This represents a major long-term commitment from both the fighter and the promotion.
Charles Oliveira has signed a new long-term contract with the UFC, according to his coach Diego Lima, securing the Brazilian lightweight contender for eight more fights and keeping him active until he turns 40.
Lima confirmed the deal publicly, describing it as an excellent agreement for his fighter. He also pushed back on any suggestions that Oliveira is winding down his career, making clear that those expecting a retirement announcement will be waiting a while yet.
Oliveira, currently 36 years old, holds a professional record of 37 wins and 11 losses and sits third in the UFC lightweight rankings, as well as eleventh in the pound-for-pound standings. The Sao Paulo native trains out of Chute Boxe Diego Lima and has built his reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in MMA history. Standing five-foot-ten with a 74-inch reach, the orthodox southpaw lands 3.35 significant strikes per minute at a 54 percent accuracy rate, while also averaging 2.22 takedowns and 2.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes — a combination that has made him a persistent threat across multiple championship runs at 155 pounds.
Why it matters
- Oliveira remains ranked third at lightweight, meaning any fights under this deal are likely to carry title implications
- His submission and grappling volume keeps him among the most technically dangerous fighters in the division regardless of age
- The eight-fight structure signals the UFC views him as a marquee lightweight presence for several more years
- Dismissing retirement talk suggests Oliveira and his team are approaching this phase of his career with full competitive intent
