Charles Oliveira’s next move remains uncertain following his victory over Max Holloway at UFC 326.
Several potential opponents have been mentioned as options for his Octagon return. Among them, Conor McGregor continues to draw attention given his planned comeback.
While exploring those possibilities, Oliveira’s coach and manager Diego Lima addressed the chances of facing the Irish star.
Diego Lima says Conor McGregor is ‘afraid’ to face Charles Oliveira
McGregor is expected to return during International Fight Week after a five-year absence from the UFC. That timeline has fuelled speculation about potential opponents.
Lima, however, believes a fight with Oliveira is unlikely. Speaking on Ag. Fight’s podcast ‘Direto de Vegas’, he suggested the Irishman would avoid that matchup.
He said: “We would love a fight against McGregor, for example. But, after that last fight against Max Holloway, it’s not going to happen with McGregor.
“McGregor will run away, that’s a fact. McGregor isn’t stupid. He’s saying he is going to come back, but he would never come back against Charles.
“He would be afraid to come back against Charles. I think ‘fear’ is the word. Because he knows he’ll be taken to the ground and crushed like Holloway,” Lima concluded.
Charles Oliveira focused on title path despite other options
Despite the discussion around McGregor, Oliveira’s priority remains clear.
Lima emphasised that the main objective is another shot at the lightweight title.
At the same time, he did not rule out other opponents. Names such as Arman Tsarukyan and Nate Diaz remain possibilities before a title fight.
Crucially, Oliveira is not willing to delay his return until the end of the year, keeping his options open for an earlier fight.
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