Charles Oliveira may no longer be the UFC lightweight champion, but he remains one of the most popular mixed martial artists in Brazil.
Oliveira, who has 7.6 million followers on Instagram (Anderson Silva has 5.3 million and Alex Pereira has 3.5 million), was one of the big stars of a charity auction hosted by Brazilian soccer star Neymar Jr. on Monday to raise money for flood victims in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul state. During the event, experiences with Oliveira sold for just under $100,000. In total, about $5.1 million was raised for flood-affected families, including at least 13,000 people.
According to Oliveira’s coach Diego Lima, Neymar has matched the total amount of the donation to the southern Brazilian state. The experience with Oliveira was purchased by businessman Román Spiegel, who will have the opportunity to accompany the Brazilian fighter to his next UFC fight. The experience also includes behind-the-scenes access, including observing training sessions and the weight-cutting process. Spiegel will also receive two tickets to events where Oliveira competes.
It is currently unclear when Oliveira will return to the Octagon. “The Bronx” last appeared at UFC 300, losing a split decision to Tsarukyan in a lightweight title eliminator.
