Charles Oliveira Will Face Diego Lopes at UFC 335
The BMF champion defends his title against Diego Lopes in Las Vegas on December 12, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
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Charles Oliveira is set to defend his UFC BMF championship title against Diego Lopes in the main event of UFC 335. The bout will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on December 12, 2026.
Why it matters
A victory at UFC 335 could propel Charles Oliveira into a fight for the UFC lightweight championship. The current title is held by Justin Gaethje, though reports suggest he may retire from competitive fighting.
The upcoming event is officially numbered as UFC 335. Competitors in the lightweight division typically weigh in at the 155 lbs limit for championship bouts.
The players
Charles Oliveira
He is the current holder of the UFC BMF championship title.
Diego Lopes
He is a professional mixed martial artist scheduled to challenge for the BMF title.
Justin Gaethje
He is the current UFC lightweight champion who has been linked to potential retirement.
Arman Tsarukyan
He is a ranked contender currently seeking a path to the UFC lightweight championship.
The details
The headline bout highlights the main event lineup for the card at T-Mobile Arena. In addition to the BMF title fight, the division landscape remains dynamic as contenders like Arman Tsarukyan wait for championship opportunities.
Timeline
UFC 335 is scheduled to take place on December 12, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This bout shapes the hierarchy of the lightweight division while determining the current steward of the BMF title. A win here positions Oliveira to challenge for the undisputed lightweight crown, potentially triggering a major shift in the weight class rankings.
The outcome will directly determine the next challenger in the lightweight title picture and define the promotional direction for the 155-pound division. Oliveira’s ability to secure a future title shot hinges entirely on maintaining his current standing with a win at T-Mobile Arena.
The takeaway
Fans should monitor the lightweight division rankings closely as this fight could force a transition in the title picture. If Justin Gaethje follows through on rumored retirement plans, the winner of this BMF clash may become the primary focus for the division.
Further reading
For more on the current state of the octagon, visit the Mixed Martial Arts section.
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