Charles Oliveira dominated Beneil Dariush in the co-main event of UFC 289 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on Saturday, securing a remarkable first-round win and re-entering the discussion for a chance at the UFC lightweight championship. Oliveira revealed his willingness to confront champion Islam Makhachev in a rematch on hostile territory.

In the post-fight press conference, Oliveira confirmed his determination to become the champion and expressed his desire to rematch the fighter who beat him in October for the vacant title. UFC President Dana White refused to make an official statement on Saturday as to how the Brazilian will fare against Makhachev. However, he declared that a rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev was essential, sensible, and feasible.

As former UFC champion, Oliveira holds records for the most finishes and submissions in UFC history. He has declined to revisit the match where he lost to Makhachev and explicitly stated that he lacked focus at the time.

After this victory, “Do Bronx” stated that he would maintain his fighting style and not overthink if he gets a rematch. Makhachev acknowledged Oliveira’s impressive performance, but asserted that ‘still there is a level in this game.’

The Chute Boxe fighter rejoiced in his victory, stating that he is ‘back in the winning path’ and emphasized the importance of his 20th UFC finish, claiming that he just needs one round to win a fight. For Oliveira, this win was personalised as he had formerly lost on Canadian soil four times, but he broke that losing streak in a magnificent way.

Oliveira stated that the celebration inside the cage felt surreal because most of his losses happened in that same arena, but this moment of triumph will be etched in his memory. He was overwhelmed when he realized that he had won the sympathetic support of Canadians who gave him a standing ovation, making him feel like he belongs to a community. Despite being a Brazilian, he has fans worldwide, and he felt cheered everywhere as loudly as he was cheered in Canada.