Islam Makhachev thinks Charles Oliveira feels ‘pressure’ ahead of UFC 280 (Video)

Islam Makhachev believes Charles Oliveira and his team feel “pressure” ahead of UFC 280 due to previous losses to fighters in Makhachev’s camp.

At UFC 280 media day in Abu Dhabi, Islam Makhachev told reporters that he is not feeling any pressure ahead of his first championship fight. However, he had a different opinion regarding his opponent Charles Oliveira.

“My team don’t have pressure; I don’t have pressure. I think [Oliveira], his team have some pressure because they have a big team,” Makhachev said. “I have a big team, and already we beat two guys from his team; Islam Mamedov fought some guy from his team, and Kurban Taygibov beat someone from his team.”

“And then Saturday night, it’s going to be 3-0.”

Islam Makhachev respects Charles Oliveira’s skills but is confident that he is the best lightweight in the world

“I just have to respect his skills; striking, grappling, and I don’t think about the emotional. I just focus on me,” Makhachev said. “I just have to cut weight and be ready everywhere.”

Makhachev often uses the extra pound allowance when weighing in, but he has never missed weight in his professional MMA career.

“Right now, he’s the champion. Right now, he’s [the] best lightweight. I don’t think he’s the best lightweight. Right now, I know this is my moment, and I believe right now, I’m [the] best lightweight in the world.”

After Oliveira’s title was vacated in the infamous UFC 274 weight incident, he went on to defeat Justin Gaethje without getting the belt wrapped around his waist. This Saturday in Abu Dhabi, Oliveira will battle Makhachev in a bid to reclaim the title he feels he never lost.

UFC 280: Charles Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev takes place on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, live from Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Follow along with FanSided MMA for all your news and highlights.