Charles Oliveira wants Justin Gaethje rematch to settle unfinished business, unify UFC, BMF belts

Charles Oliveira is positioning himself as the next challenger for Justin Gaethje's undisputed UFC lightweight championship, citing unfinished business and controversial history between the two fighters.

Oliveira and Gaethje fought in Phoenix in 2022 under circumstances that still rankle the Brazilian. Oliveira was stripped of his lightweight title after missing weight by half a pound at the Arizona weigh-ins—a decision he has long disputed, maintaining he had made weight the night before. Despite the controversy, the bout proceeded, and Oliveira finished Gaethje. Four years later, Gaethje captured the undisputed belt by defeating Ilia Topuria at the UFC White House card on June 14, reigniting Oliveira's interest in a rematch.

Oliveira, who currently holds the BMF title after a dominant decision victory over Max Holloway, sees an opportunity to create history by unifying both belts against Gaethje. He expressed his eagerness to face the champion while noting the layered narrative: the original weigh-in controversy, the location of their first fight in Gaethje's home state, and the title he lost that day. "There's nothing better than putting both belts on the line, the BMF title and the lightweight championship," Oliveira told MMA Fighting.

Though Gaethje has indicated minimal interest in competing again this year after victories over Paddy Pimblett and Topuria, Oliveira said he is willing to wait for a 2027 title unification bout if necessary. He confirmed that his team planned to meet with UFC officials to negotiate terms. "I'm just waiting for a phone call," Oliveira stated, emphasizing his readiness to fight wherever the promotion decides, though a bout in Brazil would hold special significance for the fighter and local fans.