Initial Reports on Charles Oliveira’s UFC Fight Night 74 Injury are Good, but Inconclusive

Charles Oliveira suffered a fight-ending injury in the UFC Fight Night 74 main event with Max Holloway on Sunday in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. He was transported to the hospital afterwards and the initial reports were good, although inconclusive.

“Charles was immediately transported to the hospital. He was alert. He was able to move all his extremities,” said Tom Wright, UFC Director of Operations in Canada.

Wright had no further specifics beyond that, but it was still welcome news, considering Oliveira had been clutching his shoulder/neck area when he went down.

The fight had started to deliver the expected fireworks from the opening bell, with both fighters rushing to the center of the Octagon and firing. Oliveira was looking to land his explosive kicks, while Holloway began working hard punches to the body, trying to wear Oliveira down.

Oliveira then shot for a takedown and Holloway used his underhooks to turn the Brazilian on their way to the canvas. Knowing he didn’t want to fight inside of Oliveira’s guard, Holloway stood and backed away, forcing the fight back to the feet.

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Before things could start up again, Oliveira put his right hand to his left shoulder in obvious pain, and then stuck out his left hand to ward Holloway off, as the Hawaiian began to engage again. Oliveira then slouched against the fence and down to the canvas, laying flat on his back as referee Herb Dean waved off the fight.

Holloway was all-class following the fight, as the first words of his post-fight interview were, “Everybody, send your prayers to Charles. This is how we make our living. All my prayers to Charles.”

MMAWeekly.com will keep you posted as we receive further updates about Oliveira’s condition.