Brazil’s AgFight recently reported that the UFC offered Charles Oliveira a fight vs. Michael Chandler, but it was turned down, in hopes that with division champion Khabib Nurmagomedov retired, a title shot, presumably vs. #1 contender Dustin Poirier will be forthcoming.

“It seems that the organization plans to have the Brazilian do another fight before qualifying for the title shot,” wrote Neri Fung, via Google Translate. “According to information obtained by Ag Fight from sources close to the organization, the UFC offered ‘do Bronx’ a bout against newcomer and former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler, at UFC 258 on February 13. Also according to sources linked to the UFC, the Brazilian’s team ruled out any interest in the bout against the American, unless it was for lightweight belt. Do Bronx’ remains focused on getting the long-dreamed title shot in his next fight.”

Oliveira’s coach Diego Lima confirmed the report to Marcelo Alonso for Sherdog.

“Charles had never been so close to the belt and it’s important to note that he worked hard for that,” said Lima. “He is on an eight-fight winning streak, with seven coming via submission or KO. The fans and even Poirier recognized that. Today is February 1. It makes no sense for us to accept a title eliminator for eleven days from now.

Charles needs time to lose weight, we lose about two days with visa stuff, and of course we need to prepare for the fight itself. Our goal was [to] fight for the belt against Poirier, but if Poirier will not fight for the belt and the UFC wants to make the Chandler fight for the belt, no problem. But all champions have two or three months to make a camp to get ready. We already did crazy stuff like accept Clay Guida in 10 days and Tony Ferguson in 20, but I think that for all Charles has done, he deserves to have a full camp to fight for that title.

What do you think UG, about declining a bout vs. Chandler on eleven day’s notice, in hopes of securing a title fight vs. Poirier?