Charles Oliveira was expected to return to the octagon in a highly anticipated matchup against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 331. But the fight never took place. His close friend and training partner, Allan Nascimento, had passed away unexpectedly, leaving Oliveira heartbroken and unable to continue.
Nascimento was more than just a teammate. He was part of Oliveira’s extended family at the Chute Boxe Academy under Diego Lima. The news of his sudden death hit Oliveira hard, and it quickly became clear that he was not in the right headspace to compete. Former two-division champion Daniel Cormier, speaking on his YouTube channel, confirmed the reason for the withdrawal. 'Charles was ready to go for the rematch with Tsarukyan,' Cormier said, 'but after losing his teammate, he just couldn’t do it.'
Oliveira and Nascimento shared a deep bond. They trained together, stood in each other’s corners during fights, and pushed each other to be better every day. The loss was devastating, not just to Oliveira but to the entire Chute Boxe Academy. The connection between them went beyond the gym. 'They were brothers by all accounts,' Cormier said. 'That kind of loss is something no one can be ready for, and it’s easy to see why Charles would step away.'
At the time, Oliveira was on the rebound from a major setback. The fight with Tsarukyan was supposed to be the next chapter in his journey. But with Nascimento’s passing, Oliveira chose to honor his friend over chasing another victory. His next appearance was at a funeral, not a fight.
The emotional farewell at the Chute Boxe Academy was a powerful moment. Teammates formed a guard of honor as Nascimento’s casket was carried out, applauding the man who had given everything inside the cage. Oliveira stood among them, his eyes red with emotion. 'Allanzito, you were always an example of commitment, discipline, and character,' he said, as reported by Sherdog. 'You’ll never be forgotten.'
Oliveira has vowed to keep Nascimento’s legacy alive in every fight he steps into. 'Every time I step into the cage, you will be there with me,' he said, referencing the late fighter’s famous 'Heeyyy' pre-fight chant. That spirit, he said, will continue to drive him. But the grief still lingers, and it’s clear the loss has left a lasting impact.
Nascimento’s UFC career was short but impactful. He started in 2021 with a split-decision loss to Tagir Ulanbekov at UFC 267. From there, he won four straight fights, proving his resilience and determination. His record of 4-2 in the Octagon didn’t define him. He was loved, respected, and missed. For Oliveira, Nascimento’s legacy is no longer just about the fights he won or lost. It’s about the heart he showed, the bond he shared, and the mark he left on everyone around him.
Now, Oliveira moves forward with a new purpose. The loss of Nascimento will not be forgotten. In fact, it will be with him in every fight, every moment, and every 'Heeyyy' he echoes in the cage. The spirit of Chute Boxe is stronger than ever, and it carries the memory of the man who touched so many lives.