Charles Oliveira extends champion vs. champion challenge to Justin Gaethje
Aged 38, Justin Gaethje managed to capture the undisputed UFC lightweight title for the first time with an all-time display against Ilia Topuria.
Heading into the bout as an underdog, as he has been in at least 10 of his 16 outings since joining the UFC, 'The Highlight' had the weight of the world on his shoulders. Fighting in front of his family, in a once-in-a-lifetime event at the White House, against an undefeated pound-for-pound great in Topuria, all with rumors of retirement hanging over his head, Gaethje had to handle the pressure and perform at his best.
And that he did. Justin Gaethje weathered the storm and delivered a show-stopping performance on Sunday evening, earning him UFC gold and an additional $825,000 in bonuses. However, capturing the title has painted a target on his back, and his peers were quick to ready their arrows in the direction of the new champion.
Several elite lightweights announced their intention to fight Gaethje, but nobody had a more unique proposal than Charles Oliveira.
Currently riding a two-fight win streak, 'Do Bronx' has honed in on a title fight with the newly crowned champion. Oliveira doesn't come empty-handed, with the South American willing to put his BMF title on the line should his offer be accepted.
"BMF and UFC lightweight belt - let's make history," Oliveira said on X. "Deal? Winner takes all."
#BMF and #UFC lightweight belt - let's make history
— Charles 'DoBronxs' Oliveira (@CharlesDoBronxs) June 15, 2026
Deal?
Winner takes all...@Justin_Gaethjepic.twitter.com/sc9crX8SHS
After employing a suffocating grapple-heavy style against Max Holloway last time out, Charles Oliveira received much backlash. The performance sparked calls for a rule change to BMF title fights, while others insisted the UFC should scrap the title entirely.
With the two men holding belts, a champ vs. champ affair would be a huge selling point for the rematch. And if their second meeting is anything like their first, it could resurrect the BMF title to its former glory.
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This story was originally published June 16, 2026 at 8:14 AM.