Charles Oliveira accuses Conor McGregor of avoiding direct confrontation and sees Max Holloway as an easier opponent
Brazilian fighter Charles Oliveira, holder of the UFC’s BMF (Boys’ Match) belt, made a scathing statement about Conor McGregor, claiming that the Irishman avoided him to face Max Holloway. Oliveira expressed his perception that McGregor found Holloway to be a more accessible opponent in his highly anticipated return to the Octagon.
The controversy over Conor McGregor’s choice of opponents
In an interview published by an American media site specializing in MMA, Charles Oliveira categorically stated that the fight with Conor McGregor was initially destined for him. The Brazilian, known for his technique and submissions, suggested that McGregor opted for Max Holloway as he assessed that he would have a greater chance of winning against the American. This perspective raises questions about the Irish fighter’s strategy in selecting his opponents.
McGregor’s long-awaited return to the Octagon
Conor McGregor is set to make a big return at UFC 329, which takes place on July 12th. The confirmed opponent is Max Holloway, in a fight that marks McGregor’s return after a five-year hiatus away from competition. Expectations surrounding this fight are high, given the former champion’s long period of inactivity and the relevance of his return to the UFC scene.
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Oliveira reveals behind the scenes of a possible fight for the BMF belt
Even though he never received a formal proposal to fight McGregor, Charles Oliveira emphasized that there was a consensus behind the scenes at the UFC. According to him, the winner of the fight for the BMF belt – which he won – would face the Irishman. Oliveira reinforces his thesis that McGregor made a conscious decision when selecting Holloway, seeking an apparently less challenging path for his return.
Charles Oliveira’s analysis and prediction for the main fight
Charles Oliveira also offered a detailed prediction for the confrontation between McGregor and Holloway. He highlighted that, due to the long time without fighting, the task will not be simple for the Irishman, but recognized Conor McGregor’s power. Oliveira warned that a single mistake from Holloway could be fatal, culminating in an immediate knockout.
The Brazilian fighter detailed his expectations for the different stages of the fight:
- Start of the fight (first rounds):Advantage for Conor McGregor due to his well-known knockout power at the beginning of the fight.
- From the second round:The scenario tends to become more favorable to Max Holloway, given his resistance and ability to maintain an intense pace.
- End result:McGregor has the chance to win by quick knockout if he can impose his aggressive style from the beginning. However, if the fight extends beyond the opening rounds, Holloway’s likelihood of victory increases significantly.
Impact of McGregor’s decision on the future of the category
Conor McGregor’s choice of opponent not only affects those directly involved, but also reverberates in public perception and the dynamics of the division. For fighters like Charles Oliveira, who seek the biggest challenges and the most profitable fights, McGregor’s preference for Holloway can be seen as a strategy to manage his return and image. This decision has the potential to influence future fight arrangements, outlining the paths of other contenders and the credibility of the organization’s rankings.
