CHARLES OLIVEIRA

Charles Oliveira, known as "Do Bronx," was born on October 17, 1989, in the favela of Vicente de Carvalho in Guarujá, São Paulo, Brazil. Despite growing up in poverty, he developed a passion for football. However, at age seven, he was diagnosed with rheumatic fever and a heart murmur, conditions that caused severe pain and limited his mobility. Doctors even feared he might become paraplegic. 

Defying medical advice, Oliveira's parents encouraged him to stay active, and over time, his health improved. At 12, a neighbor introduced him to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, where he began training under Roger Coelho, who offered free classes to low-income families. His family supported his training by selling street snacks and recycled cardboard. Remarkably, just two months after beginning jiu-jitsu, Oliveira won his first major title as a white belt in 2003. 

Transitioning to mixed martial arts in 2007, Oliveira quickly made a name for himself with a series of victories. He joined the UFC in 2010 and has since become one of the organization's most accomplished fighters, holding records for the most submission wins and finishes in UFC history. His journey from the favelas of Brazil to the pinnacle of MMA is a testament to his resilience, skill, and unwavering determination.