Charles “do Bronx” Oliveira stormed in the UFC with a bang. Besides winning his first challenge in the promotion and maintaining his unbeaten record (13 fights), he took the prize for best submission of the night against Darren Elkins, with a snug armbar from the triangle. Now the Ericson Cardozo pupil from the São Paulo coast faces Efrain Escudero, who has thirteen wins and one loss on his record.
All set for his September 15 challenge at UFN 22, and with his always slick Jiu-Jitsu, Charles had a conversation with GRACIEMAG.com:
The UFC quickly called you up for another fight, against a great fighter and in the co-main event. How does that make you feel?
I’m happy because my intention always was to fight the big names in the division.
What’s your breakdown on Efrain Escudero?
I feel he’s a really tough dude, who fights with a lot of heart. But I think Darren (last opponent) was more technical than he is.
You recently competed at a Jiu-Jitsu tourney (National Cup) and were brown belt champion. Do you intend to carry on competing in gi tournaments?
For sure, because it’s in my veins. Whenever I can, I’ll compete alongside my team, a true family.
What do Jiu-Jitsu championships like this one contribute to your MMA performance?
They keep up my rhythm and gas, since I have to do a number of matches on the same day and against better and better opponents.
What was it like to have your first fight in the UFC go so well, with the submission of the night?
It was a marvelous sensation and the result of lots of dedication in training. It lightened the burden of making my debut.
Last Monday the new headquarters of Bronx’s Gold Team, Charles’s team, was inaugurated in the city of Guarujá. The event counted more than sixty athletes in attendance, among them Cosmo Alexandre, Guto and Rodrigo Granola, among others. “I’m pleased with the new home and the most important part is that the athletes like it a lot. I’m certain a lot of champions will come out of here,” says trainer Ericson Cardozo.
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