Charles Oliveira makes bold prediction for title fight against Dustin Poirier

Charles Oliveira has no doubt he will beat Dustin Poirier when they clash for the UFC lightweight title this year.

Oliveira, who won the vacant UFC lightweight title against Michael Chandler in May, is expected to make his first defense against Poirier after 'The Diamond' recently defeated Conor McGregor at UFC 264.

The Brazilian is currently on a nine-fight winning streak in the UFC, with eight of those coming by stoppage. His second round TKO of Chandler secured him the accolade of the most finishes in UFC history at 17.

Oliveira believes his newfound confidence in the striking department will eventually lead to a submission win if he is to fight Poirier.

"I believe (in) the firepower in my hands, but I think in a fight against Dustin, I believe I can submit him," Oliveira told MMAFighting.

"Working with my hands, with my strikes, I would definitely cause a lot of damage and then submit him.

“It’s going to be a war, a great fight. He deserves all the respect in the world, he has heavy hands and good jiu-jitsu, too, so I think it’s going to be a great fight, but I believe in my victory.”

Oliveira was cageside at UFC 264 to watch Poirier's first-round TKO win against McGregor. 'Do Bronx' thinks the fight "was going well" for McGregor whilst on the feet, but gave credit to his future opponent Poirier for his wrestling skills and ground and pound.

“He deserves all the respect in the world for everything he’s done, but I’m not worried about what people bring to the table against me,” Oliveira said.

Who would win in a fight between Oliveira and Poirier? Comment below

The Brazilian has defeated top lightweights such as Chandler, Tony Ferguson and Kevin Lee during his three-year unbeaten run. Oliveira continued by saying he is now a more complete fighter after improving his striking and thinks a fight with Poirier will take place in December.

“I worry about what I’m going to add to my game. I have firepower in both hands, everybody sees how much I’ve evolved on the feet, and I have my jiu-jitsu," he continued.

“It’s going to be a great fight, if this one really happens. It’s going to be a great show [for the fans], and I’m ready on the feet and on the ground. I’m well both mentally, physically and spiritually. I’m happy. Let’s go. We’ll be defending what’s ours in December.”

The top lightweight contender and philanthropist Poirier sold off his UFC 264 fight worn apparel to raise money for his charity, 'The Good Fight Foundation'. The $28,000 raised from the sale will be used to help build new facilities for Pygmy people in Uganda.

And 'The Diamond' sent a message to Oliveira following his win over McGregor, stating: "Oliveira. Big respect! I'm coming for it (the belt)."

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