Charles Oliveira, the Brazilian mixed martial artist who has captured titles in both the lightweight and featherweight divisions, has not ruled out a potential return to the featherweight division to chase a third UFC title. Despite his current focus on the lightweight division, the 36-year-old fighter expressed openness to the idea of dropping back to 145 pounds if the opportunity arises.

Background on Oliveira’s Weight Class Journey

Oliveira initially competed in the featherweight division, where he held the UFC’s 145-pound title from 2020 to 2021. However, he faced challenges in maintaining that weight class due to multiple failed weight cuts, which led to a move up to lightweight. His transition proved to be a successful one, as he went on to capture the lightweight title in 2022 and has remained there ever since.

Despite his achievements in the lightweight division, Oliveira has never completely ruled out the possibility of returning to featherweight. During a recent Q&A session with fans in Brazil, he mentioned that he still has the potential to make the 145-pound weight class if given enough time to prepare.

Future Plans and Potential Fight Scenarios

Oliveira’s immediate focus remains on the lightweight division, where he is set to face Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 326 on March 7 in Las Vegas. This fight is significant as it marks a decade since their first encounter at 145 pounds.

“My entire focus is the lightweight division,” Oliveira said. “I want to beat Holloway and then challenge for the lightweight title. After that, I’ll see where I go.”

He also mentioned that if he were to move back to featherweight, it would require a substantial amount of time to prepare. “I can still make 145,” he said, “but I need three or four months to get back into shape.”

Oliveira acknowledged that moving up to welterweight would be easier if he were seeking a second UFC title, but he emphasized that his preference is to return to 145 pounds if the opportunity arises. “I would rather go down to 145,” he said.

Speculation and Potential Legacy Moments

The idea of Oliveira potentially facing Conor McGregor at featherweight has sparked speculation among fans and analysts. Such a matchup would be a significant moment in his career and could be seen as a defining chapter in his legacy.

“If there were a fight with Conor McGregor, something good for my legacy and my story, that would be cool,” Oliveira said. However, he emphasized that his current focus is on winning at lightweight and securing another title shot.

Oliveira also mentioned that he could potentially drop to 145 pounds after giving up both titles in the lightweight and BMF divisions. “I win the [BMF] belt now, I fight for the [lightweight] title at the end of the year, then I give up both titles and drop to 145 to fight for that belt,” he said. “But I don’t know if I was dreaming or just going crazy.”

Despite his uncertainty, Oliveira remains open to the possibility of returning to featherweight. He is currently preparing for his upcoming fight against Holloway, and the outcome of that bout could determine his next steps in the UFC.

With his history in both weight classes, Oliveira’s potential return to featherweight would be a significant moment in his career and could have a lasting impact on the UFC’s lightweight and featherweight divisions.