Diego Ferreira, the only fighter to face Beneil Dariush twice in the UFC cage, has spoken about his mixed feelings regarding the forthcoming crucial lightweight tilt at UFC 289 between Charles Oliveira and Dariush. Having lost twice to Dariush, Ferreira has chosen to root for Oliveira in this high-stakes fight, which will afford the victor a chance to face Islam Makhachev for the 155-pound championship later this year.

Ferreira stressed the need for Oliveira to take Dariush seriously, given the latter’s toughness and sharp grappling skills. Ferreira expressed his hope that the best man wins, despite his preference for Oliveira progressing.

Returning to the octagon on August 7th to fight Michael Johnson at UFC Vegas 73, Ferreira acknowledged that the bout would be anything but easy. A three-fight losing streak to Dariush, Gregor Gillespie, and Mateusz Gamrot had been a setback, but he remained focused on his roots and motivated to return to wrestling and jiu-jitsu in a different way.

Dariush was determined to go back to the ranking and earn the belt after previously coming so close. Ferreira felt that this was his time, and he was dealing with it with all his energy.