(ALSO SEE: Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Deiveson Figueiredo, Brandon Moreno after UFC 256?)
The emergence of Charles Oliveira as a top lightweight contender can no longer be ignored after his win over Tony Ferguson at UFC 256.
Oliveira (30-8 MMA, 18-8 UFC) proved he’s a true title threat at 155 pounds on Saturday when he dominated former interim champion Ferguson (25-5 MMA, 15-3 UFC) by unanimous decision at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, extending his winning streak to eight consecutive fights.
The Brazilian has been part of the UFC roster for more than a decade, and while always dangerous, he’s only now coming into truly elite form. Can he reach the belt? That remains to be seen, but Oliveira is on a path of destruction, and no one appears to be safe.
After the big win, Oliveira targeted the winner of January’s UFC 257 main event between Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor. Is that realistic for him, though?
Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on Oliveira’s future after beating Ferguson at UFC 256.
Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Charles Oliveira after UFC 256 win?