Charles Oliveira, former UFC lightweight champion, expressed interest in facing Conor McGregor at the UFC event scheduled for the White House in June 2026. The statement came during the UFC Rio press conference on Wednesday (8) in Rio de Janeiro. Oliveira, returning to Brazil after nearly six years, faces Mateusz Gamrot in the main event this Saturday (11) at Farmasi Arena. He highlighted the fight’s potential for his legacy and finances, regardless of the outcome against the Polish fighter.
The motivation emerges amid final preparations for the homecoming bout, where Oliveira aims to maintain his undefeated record in Brazil. McGregor, absent from the octagon since 2021, has pushed for a return at the special event, confirmed by President Donald Trump to celebrate America’s 250th independence anniversary.
- Oliveira has 34 wins, with 22 by submission, a category record.
- McGregor holds 22 victories in 25 fights, including titles in two divisions.
- The White House UFC event has no confirmed fights yet, with negotiations starting in February 2026.
5 fights. 6 contracts. 2 bonuses.
— UFC (@ufc) October 8, 2025
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Preparation for Brazil return
Oliveira completed his training camp in São Paulo and arrived in Rio on Tuesday (7). He emphasized the significance of fighting in Brazil for the first time with fans since 2019. Tickets sold out in under three hours, signaling massive support for the 35-year-old.
The focus remains on Gamrot, ranked fourth in the lightweight division. Oliveira, ranked second, sees a win as a springboard for bigger fights. Coaches reported improvements in takedown defense, a key area targeted by recent opponents.
Motivation beyond the octagon
Oliveira admitted future plans include high-impact bouts. A superfight with McGregor, 37, appeals for clear financial reasons. He noted mutual respect, with no public bad blood. The fight would generate substantial revenue, benefiting both fighters’ careers.
McGregor called his return a “done deal” in recent posts, demanding $100 million and golden visas for family. UFC president Dana White denied advanced talks but confirmed McGregor’s interest. Oliveira sees the bout as a chance to elevate global MMA.
History of UFC superfights
Special events like the White House UFC echo government partnerships since 2018. Oliveira recalled iconic wins, like against Michael Chandler in 2022, earning performance bonuses. McGregor built wealth with fights against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, totaling over 20 million pay-per-view buys.
Oliveira analyzed superfight trends, noting weight adjustments and rematch clauses. He expressed confidence in future negotiations, prioritizing family well-being. McGregor, suspended for a 2024 doping violation, served his penalty and seeks full reinstatement.
Response to opponent’s taunts
Gamrot, ranked eighth, hinted at retiring Oliveira during the press conference. The 34-year-old Pole arrives with five consecutive UFC wins. Oliveira responded calmly, attributing the remarks to the pressure of the Rio “cauldron.”
He dismissed retirement concerns at 35, with 34 career wins. Oliveira acknowledged Gamrot’s 25-3 record, emphasizing technical respect. Polish coaches predicted grappling dominance, but Oliveira trusts his lethal submission game.
UFC Rio full card
Saturday’s event features 13 fights at Farmasi Arena, broadcast on ESPN+. Oliveira vs. Gamrot headlines the main card at 7 p.m. (Brasília time). Deiveson Figueiredo faces Montel Jackson in the co-main, seeking redemption after a July loss.
Vicente Luque takes on Joel Alvarez in welterweight, a clash of finishers. Jhonata Diniz debuts against Mario Pinto in heavyweight, with knockout expectations. Preliminaries include Bia Mesquita vs. Irina Alekseeva in women’s bantamweight.
- Key attractions: Oliveira’s Brazil return and Figueiredo’s comeback.
- Expected attendance: 15,000 spectators at full capacity.
- Broadcast: ESPN+ from 4 p.m. for prelims.
Oliveira’s legacy outlook
Oliveira began his pro career in 2006, showing remarkable growth in the lightweight division since 2010. He holds records for interim title defenses and UFC submissions. A McGregor fight would mark peak visibility, akin to McGregor’s 2017 Mayweather bout.
The Brazilian plans to donate part of his earnings to social projects in Guarulhos, his hometown. Coaches highlight tactical maturity, with striking adjustments post-recent losses. Oliveira aims for the linear title by 2027, regardless of short-term results.
