Charles Oliveira has already held UFC gold. He owns records. He’s headlined major cards. But at UFC 326, “Do Bronx” wants something different and deeply personal. Oliveira (36-11 MMA, 24-11 UFC) will challenge Max Holloway for the BMF title in a lightweight main event on March 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (Paramount+). And if he wins, he knows exactly who he wants placing the belt around his waist.
“My father,” Oliveira said. “If my father and my mother hadn’t believed in me and supported me, none of this would be possible. Having my father put the belt on me, that would be amazing.”
A BMF Tradition
Since its introduction in 2019, the BMF belt has carried a ceremonial flair.
-
At UFC 244, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson crowned Jorge Masvidal after defeating Nate Diaz.
-
At UFC 291, Masvidal wrapped the belt around Justin Gaethje following his win over Dustin Poirier.
-
At UFC 300, UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman presented the title to Holloway after his iconic knockout of Gaethje.
-
Most recently at UFC 318, Lil Wayne wrapped the belt around Holloway after his victory that sent Poirier into retirement.
Oliveira’s choice may not carry celebrity status but emotionally, it may resonate more than any of the previous moments.
More Than a “Novelty” Belt
The BMF title didn’t exist for much of Oliveira’s UFC run. By the time it was introduced, he was already a veteran with a résumé that includes a UFC lightweight championship and multiple company records. Still, he sees value in adding it to his legacy. “It’s one more thing that I can add to my legacy, It’s one more achievement. It’s great,” Oliveira said. At the same time, he knows the BMF strap isn’t the ultimate goal.
At 36, some question whether Oliveira’s championship window has closed particularly after being knocked out by Ilia Topuria in June at UFC 317. Topuria has since been sidelined due to personal matters, leaving the lightweight division in flux. Oliveira rebounded with a submission win over Mateusz Gamrot in October, reasserting himself among the elite.
“I think that last fight I made a statement,” Oliveira said. “The lion is still hungry.”
A win over Holloway at UFC 326 would not only secure the BMF belt it would likely place Oliveira squarely back in the conversation for a lightweight title shot.
Legacy Night in Las Vegas?
UFC 326 at T-Mobile Arena sets the stage for a high-stakes rematch between two of the most accomplished fighters of their era. For Holloway, it’s about defending a belt he made iconic.
For Oliveira, it’s about more than a title it’s about family, redemption, and proving that his championship days aren’t behind him. If “Do Bronx” gets his hand raised, don’t expect a Hollywood celebrity in the Octagon. Expect a father embracing his son and wrapping a belt around a legacy still being written.
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
