‘I’m Up There’- Charles Oliveira Candidly Breaks Down His Place in the Lightweight GOAT Conversation

Posted on by Matt James

UFC lightweight Charles Oliveira exclusively appeared on MMA Fighting’s Trocação Franca podcast following his impressive win at UFC 274. ‘Do Bronx’ successfully finished Justin Gaethje in the first round and proved to the world that he is in fact the best lightweight on the planet.

Several fans in the MMA community were of the belief that Justin Gaethje would prove to be Oliveira’s hardest test yet, however, the Brazilian pushed past his detractors and is now riding an eleven-fight win streak.

Read More: Tony Ferguson Explains Why He Will Not Take up Charles Oliveira’s Offer to Train With Him in Brazil

Following what would have been Charles Oliveira’s second title defense had he not missed weight, the MMA world is now pondering where he ranks amongst the all-time best lightweights. With the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov and BJ Penn having ruled the roost at lightweight, Charles Oliveira has some massive shoes to fill. However, according to some, he might just be there already.

Charles Oliveira weighs in on his place amongst UFC lightweight royalty

‘Do Bronx’ pondered on his standing as the lightweight GOAT and concluded that he still had some ways to go. He emphasized the importance of keeping his feet on the ground as he looks to continue his ascent up the ranks.

“I’m getting there,” he said. “I’m becoming one of the best of all-time. I don’t think [I am] yet. One step at a time. I’m up there. We have to keep our feet on the ground, be humble. Let people think that. What do you think, am I the greatest of all-time? That’s the question.”

“My age, 32, with records of most submissions and bonuses and so many other things I have to start writing down so I don’t forget. Lightweight champion, 11 wins in a row. Of those 11 wins, only one decision. We’re happy.” [h/t MMA Fighting.com]

With the record of the most submissions under his belt, it perhaps is a matter of time before Charles Oliveira is crowned as the consensus lightweight GOAT. He has been a consistent performer for a while now and an eleven fight win streak at the upper echelon of the sport is practically unheard of.