Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira opened up about his changing views on a potential fight with Conor McGregor and his new role as an ambassador for OnlyFans in an exclusive interview.
While Oliveira had previously expressed interest in stepping in as a backup for McGregor’s comeback against Michael Chandler at UFC 303, he has now shifted his perspective. He offered to serve as a replacement fighter, provided he could negotiate a new deal if he ended up facing McGregor. When McGregor withdrew due to a toe injury, Oliveira’s fellow Brazilian, Alex Pereira, stepped in to defend his light heavyweight title against Jiri Prochazka.
Despite once calling out McGregor and expressing his willingness to fight the Irishman, Oliveira now doubts whether McGregor will return to the Octagon at all. “To be honest, he already has all the attention he needs,” Oliveira said in an interview with SPORTbible. “When I suggested it would be a good fight, it was to make money for both of us. That doesn’t seem to be his vision anymore. I don’t even think he’s going to fight again; he fights on his terms.”
Oliveira, who holds the record as the UFC’s best finisher, lost his last bout to Arman Tsarukyan by split decision in April. Known as “Do Bronx,” he has been training hard and is “waiting for the right moment” to return to the Octagon.
The 34-year-old has also been active on OnlyFans, where he shares insights into his training and daily life as an ambassador for the platform. OnlyFans is expanding its brand beyond adult content, with notable figures such as former UFC heavyweight champ Stipe Miocic and tennis star Nick Kyrgios joining.
Oliveira described his partnership with OnlyFans as an opportunity to connect with fans and share his journey. “The way they approached me was really nice, focusing on legacy and bringing my fans closer to me,” he explained. “I wanted to show my day-to-day life, our training, and even the fun moments with family and friends. It’s all about sharing my life with those who support me.”
Having risen from humble beginnings in the favelas of Sao Paulo, Oliveira views this side venture as essential for his career while helping him stay connected with his passionate fanbase. “When I was a fan, I wanted to know what my idols were doing. This gives me the chance to keep in touch with my supporters and share my journey,” he said.
Oliveira’s parents sold street snacks and collected cardboard to support his training in jiu-jitsu, defying a doctor’s advice against being active due to a heart murmur. His incredible journey is a classic rags-to-riches story, marked by his record for the most fight bonuses in UFC history.
He remarked, “Brazil is a beautiful country but incredibly tough for athletes. To succeed, you have to invest yourself and keep improving. Our main goal is to help our families, and we give everything for that.”
When asked about fellow Brazilian athletes with similar backgrounds, Oliveira mentioned football stars Vinicius Jr and Neymar. While he admires both, he expressed a preference for Neymar to walk him out to the Octagon, citing their shared roots. “I’ve known Neymar for longer, and he came from the same neighborhood as me,” Oliveira revealed. “There are pictures from our childhood in the same area—so I’d pick Neymar.”
Credit: Sport Bible
