Charles Oliveira Targets UFC 274 for Conor McGregor Bout: 'I’ll Be Waiting for Him in May’

After defeating Tony Ferguson, Michael Chandler and Dustin Poirier in a period of 12 months, Charles Oliveira was selected as Sherdog.com's 2021 “Fighter of the Year.”

“I’m really happy and moved by that and everything that is going on in my life lately,” Oliveira told Sherdog.com. “UFC champion in one of the most difficult divisions. I set records for most submissions and bonuses, [and rank] fifth in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. To finish that amazing year being chosen as ‘Fighter of the Year’ by one of the most respected outlets in the world, I’m so happy and moved that I don’t know what to talk about. I´m just thankful to God.”

As for what’s next, Oliveira pointed to a possible showdown with Conor McGregor when UFC 274 heads to Rio de Janeiro on May 7.

"May would be a wonderful date,” he said. “Conor challenged me asking a date, and tweeted Ireland vs. Brazil 2. Not only him, but also myself and all the world wants to see that fight. So let's make it happen. I´m waiting for him in May. It may be in welterweight, lightweight or middleweight, with my title on the line or not. Just choose and I´ll be ready.”

Aware that Dana White has promised the next title shot to Justin Gaethje, Oliveira did not deny that possibility.

"Gaethje was knocked out by Poirier, who I just submitted. He was almost knocked out by Chandler, who I beat via TKO, but I´m a UFC employee,” Oliveira said. “If they choose that I should fight Gaethje next, I’ll be ready too.”

Oliveira also commented on the backstage encounter with Gaethje that occurred shortly after his win over Poirier at UFC 269.

"To tell you the truth, I couldn't understand his posture. He said a lot of bullshit about me, but when he faced me he said I deserve all the respect, that I was a real champion. A few minutes later told he the press that he would [break my face]. To tell you the truth, I really don’t care about all this drama.”