The recent UFC 289 in Vancouver showcased Charles Oliveira’s celebrity status as he was treated like a superstar by the crowd before and after his first-round win over Beneil Dariush. Oliveira had previously visited Canada four times between 2010-2016, but faced defeat on each occasion to opponents such as Jim Miller, Cub Swanson, Max Holloway and Anthony Pettis. Oliveira was finished by each of them and thus swore never to fight in Canada again.

However, Oliveira’s views on fighting in Canada changed when he was scheduled to fight Dariush at UFC 288 but was unable to due to injury. UFC later rescheduled the fight at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver, with Oliveira being asked to fight in Canada again.

Although sceptical at first, Oliveira decided to go ahead and fight in Canada, happy to accept another obstacle he could overcome. This earned him his first victory on Canadian soil and brought him one step closer to a shot at the UFC lightweight gold, hoping to face Islam Makhachev again.

Oliveira’s experience in Canada was a memorable one, even causing him to cry both before and after his fight due to the phenomenal crowd response. His respect for others and humbleness have made him a fan-favorite. Oliveira has remained true to himself throughout his personal journey, rising above adversity and coming to terms with yesteryears trash.

As a result, Oliveira has managed to stay grounded and is still the same person as before. The day his family says he is changing is the day Oliveira knows to reevaluate everything. He has encountered numerous people who merely want attention and media, leaving him with minimal desire to engage with them.