Charles Oliveira to Challenge Diego Lopes at UFC 335
The BMF title bout will take place at T-Mobile Arena on December 12, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
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Local fight fans at T-Mobile Arena will see BMF champion Charles Oliveira face Diego Lopes in the main event of UFC 335 on December 12, 2026. This matchup headlines a card expected to carry significant weight for the lightweight division.
Why it matters
The outcome of this main event could shift the trajectory of the lightweight championship picture, as Oliveira has stated his intent to pursue the 155-pound title held by Justin Gaethje. With uncertainty surrounding the potential retirement of the current lightweight champion, the division remains in flux.
UFC 335 is set for the 155 lbs lightweight division, with the BMF championship title on the line at T-Mobile Arena. Future title implications depend on both the result of this bout and the status of current champion Justin Gaethje.
The players
Charles Oliveira
The current BMF championship titleholder and main event fighter.
Diego Lopes
The fighter challenging for the BMF title in the main event.
Justin Gaethje
The current UFC lightweight champion whose potential retirement affects the division.
Arman Tsarukyan
A high-ranking contender within the UFC lightweight division.
The details
Charles Oliveira, the current BMF titleholder, will headline the event against Diego Lopes. Following this contest, Oliveira plans to pivot toward a challenge for the UFC lightweight championship. The event card is scheduled to unfold at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, serving as a critical moment for top-tier contenders including Arman Tsarukyan.
Timeline
December 12, 2026: UFC 335 takes place at T-Mobile Arena.
Beyond the Strip
This bout follows the established pattern of how the UFC lightweight title trajectory typically dictates main event matchmaking in Las Vegas. It represents the latest in a long history of marquee fights held at T-Mobile Arena that shape the divisional landscape.
Fans planning to attend should monitor T-Mobile Arena for ticket release dates as the December 12 event approaches. Expect standard event-day traffic congestion near the resort corridor for this headline card.
The takeaway
Keep an eye on the lightweight division standings leading into December, as this fight could determine the next top challenger. Watch for official announcements regarding the future of the lightweight title to understand how this match fits into the wider championship rankings.
Further reading
For more on upcoming bouts at local arenas, visit Mixed Martial Arts.
Live Poll
Should a fighter's popularity prioritize them for a championship title shot over other top contenders?
