Demetrious Johnson Claims Charles Olivera is more well-rounded than Jon Jones

By Tim Burke November 22, 2024 11:30

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UFC 309's Fight of the Night between Charles Olivera and Michael Chandler was memorable. Despite the loss, Michael Chandler's stock is unaffected. Chandler's two body slams at the conclusion of round five were exciting and memorable, which has led to MMA media discussing the narrative that Michael Chandler is one of the greatest entertainers on the UFC roster. However, when watching the fight, the main takeaway is Charles Olivera's dominance, who won every exchange on the feet and on the ground.

UFC legend Demetrious Johnson spoke highly of the former lightweight champion following Do Bronx's UFC 309 victory.

"If I had to model my kids after any of the fighters right now, it wouldn't be Jon Jones. It would be Charles Olivera. The reason why is that he could fight everywhere. He could fight in the clinch, he could fight on the feet, and he could fight on the ground, and he attacks when he's on the ground. And he's able to push the pace. Like, for how long he's been in the UFC, he keeps on getting better." Johnson stated on his YouTube channel.

That is high praise from a fighter who is on many Mount Rushmores for the greatest MMA fighters of all time. Olivera's resilience in the octagon has inspired fans and made him one of the most beloved fighters in UFC history, but as his career has progressed, his skills have continued to develop. Olivera has always been an excellent jiu-jitsu artist. His 16 submissions are the most in UFC history, but what truly took Olivera to the next level was his striking. When Charles Olivera went on his championship run, his striking was what stood out the most. He knocked out Michael Chandler to win the lightweight title, and Justin Gaethje has stated that Olivera has hit him the hardest out of his opponents in his MMA career.

"A grappler who has fallen in love with striking is what he is," Cormier told Olivera's translator in an interview on the former heavyweight champions' YouTube channel. "No, I am an MMA fighter," Olivera responded.

The dual threat of Olivera's fast-paced stand-up, powerful striking, and elite grappling skills have made him one of the best and most well-rounded mixed martial artists in the world. At UFC 309, Olivera's being the aggressor with a well-respected wrestler and former Bellator champion Michael Chandler, felt like he was reaching another level to his game.

For a fighter of Demetrious Johnson's caliber—recognized as one of the most well-rounded and intelligent competitors in MMA history—to say he would model his kids after Charles Oliveira speaks volumes about Oliveira's abilities and his evolution over time. Johnson's endorsement carries significant weight, considering his impressive track record in the UFC. Often mentioned among the greatest MMA fighters of all time, Johnson's own success is a testament to his exceptional skill set and high fight IQ, making his praise of Oliveira all the more impactful. This acknowledgment reaffirms Oliveira's place among the elite in the sport. The 35-year-old is entering the conversation of the greatest Mixed Martial Artists of all time. Olivera's 23 wins are the second most in UFC history, and his 20 finishes are the most in UFC history. There is no sign of him slowing down. In fact, he seems to keep getting better.