Charles Oliveira Calls for Epic Rematch with Islam Makhachev at UFC 317: The Journey to Reclaim the Lightweight Championship During International Fight Week 2025

In the world of mixed martial arts, the path to championship glory is often paved with intense rivalries, electrifying performances, and unforgettable battles inside the octagon. One of the most anticipated rematches in UFC history is on the horizon as Charles Oliveira, the former lightweight champion, has made it clear that he wants a second shot at reclaiming his title. The Brazilian powerhouse has called for a rematch with Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, and UFC 317, set during the prestigious International Fight Week 2025, could serve as the stage for this highly anticipated clash.

After a heartbreaking loss to Makhachev at UFC 280 in October 2022, Oliveira has spent the last year retooling his game, sharpening his skills, and making his way back to the top of the division. The call for a rematch with Makhachev is more than just a desire for redemption—it’s a statement of Oliveira’s determination to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his: the lightweight title.

Charles Oliveira’s Journey to UFC Glory: From Underdog to Champion

Before delving into the specifics of the highly anticipated rematch, it’s important to understand the meteoric rise of Charles Oliveira in the UFC. Oliveira, often referred to as “Do Bronx,” began his career in the UFC back in 2010, and it wasn’t long before his skills in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and grappling earned him a reputation as one of the most dangerous submission artists in the promotion.

After a series of wins and losses, Oliveira’s breakthrough came in 2018 when he embarked on a remarkable win streak, ultimately securing a shot at the UFC lightweight title. By May 2021, Oliveira found himself facing Michael Chandler for the vacant lightweight championship at UFC 262. In a thrilling contest, Oliveira showcased his resilience, ultimately submitting Chandler in the second round to claim the UFC lightweight title.

Oliveira’s reign as champion was nothing short of dominant. He defended the title against top contenders like Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, earning himself a spot in UFC history as the most prolific submission artist in the promotion’s history. However, his reign came to an end at UFC 280 in October 2022, where he faced the rising star Islam Makhachev.

The First Fight: Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira at UFC 280

At UFC 280, Islam Makhachev, the student of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, stepped into the octagon with the opportunity to prove he was ready to take over the lightweight division. Makhachev entered the fight as the challenger, but with an impressive win streak and a style that mirrored his mentor, many believed he was poised to dethrone Oliveira.

The fight, however, was a dominant display from Makhachev. After a competitive first round, Makhachev took Oliveira down and controlled the action with his superior grappling and striking. In the second round, Makhachev rocked Oliveira with a clean left hand and immediately capitalized on the opportunity, securing a submission victory. The win marked the end of Oliveira’s reign as the lightweight champion and crowned Makhachev as the new UFC lightweight king.

The loss was a devastating blow for Oliveira, but it also ignited a fire within him. Despite the defeat, Oliveira has consistently stated that he believes he can beat Makhachev in a rematch. His confidence and determination have fueled his desire to get back into the octagon and prove he is still the best lightweight in the world.

The Path Back to the Top: Oliveira’s Resilience and Focus on a Rematch

Since his loss to Makhachev, Charles Oliveira has been working tirelessly to get back into title contention. After UFC 280, Oliveira took a break to reassess his game and address the areas where he fell short against Makhachev. He focused on improving his striking defense, wrestling, and overall fight IQ to ensure that the outcome of a potential rematch would be different.

During the recovery period, Oliveira also made it clear that he wasn’t done with the lightweight division. He has spoken publicly about his desire to face Makhachev again, stating that he’s learned from his mistakes and is ready to challenge for the title once more. Oliveira’s mindset has been one of resilience—he has always believed in his ability to bounce back from adversity.

Oliveira’s call for a rematch is not just about seeking redemption. It’s also about his passion for the sport and his commitment to proving that he is the best lightweight in the world. Oliveira understands that the road to a rematch with Makhachev won’t be easy, but he’s prepared to take on any challenge that comes his way.

UFC 317: The Stage for an Epic Rematch

UFC 317, set to take place during International Fight Week 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in UFC history. International Fight Week is a special time for MMA fans, as it brings together the biggest names in the sport for a week of events, fan interactions, and of course, the main card showdown.

The potential rematch between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev is one of the biggest storylines heading into UFC 317. The lightweight division is one of the most exciting and competitive weight classes in the UFC, and a showdown between these two fighters promises to deliver fireworks inside the octagon.

Both Oliveira and Makhachev bring unique skill sets to the table, making this a matchup that fans are eagerly anticipating. Oliveira is known for his dynamic striking and dangerous submission game, while Makhachev is a relentless wrestler with a pressure-based fighting style. The rematch would undoubtedly showcase a clash of styles, with Oliveira looking to prove that his submission skills are still the most dangerous in the division, while Makhachev will look to further cement his status as the lightweight champion with a second victory over Oliveira.

Why Fans Are Excited: The Legacy of Two Elite Fighters

The stakes for a potential rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev are incredibly high, as it would determine not only the future of the lightweight division but also the legacies of these two elite fighters. For Oliveira, a win would allow him to reclaim the title he once held and solidify his place as one of the greatest lightweights of all time. His journey from underdog to champion is one of the most inspiring stories in recent UFC history, and a victory over Makhachev would be the ultimate redemption.

On the other hand, Makhachev has proven himself to be a dominant force in the lightweight division. His win over Oliveira was a statement, but a rematch with the Brazilian would be the ultimate test to see if he truly has what it takes to be the best lightweight fighter in the world. Makhachev is widely regarded as one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC, and a win over Oliveira in a rematch would only add to his growing legacy.

For fans, the rematch is about more than just the title—it’s about witnessing two of the best fighters in the world go head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown. The first fight between Oliveira and Makhachev left many fans wanting more, and UFC 317 presents the perfect opportunity to see these two fighters face off once again.

The Future of the Lightweight Division

The lightweight division is one of the most exciting and talent-rich weight classes in the UFC. With fighters like Charles Oliveira, Islam Makhachev, Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Beneil Dariush all vying for the top spot, the competition is fierce. The rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev at UFC 317 would have major implications for the future of the lightweight division.

If Oliveira wins, he would likely be on a collision course with other top contenders, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest lightweights of all time. If Makhachev defends his title successfully, he would continue to establish himself as the dominant force in the division and could potentially set up even more exciting matchups in the future.

Ultimately, the rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev is one of the most anticipated fights in UFC history. The winner of this epic showdown will not only walk away with the lightweight championship but also the honor of being regarded as the best lightweight fighter in the world.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Test for Both Fighters

As UFC 317 approaches, the rematch between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated bouts in recent UFC history. Both fighters bring elite skills and unmatched determination to the table, making this an epic clash of two of the best fighters in the world.

For Oliveira, the rematch represents the opportunity to reclaim the lightweight title and prove that he is still the best in the world. For Makhachev, it’s a chance to solidify his place as the undisputed lightweight champion and continue his dominant run in the division.

Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the showdown, as the winner of this fight will not only walk away with the title but also cement their legacy as one of the greatest lightweight fighters of all time. UFC 317 promises to deliver an unforgettable night of action, and the journey to reclaim the lightweight championship for Charles Oliveira is a story that fans won’t want to miss.