UFC star Charles Oliveira revealed he once considered following in Mike Tyson’s footsteps by purchasing a tiger for his collection of exotic animals.
The former UFC lightweight champion, who faces Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, gave fans a glimpse into his lavish lifestyle during a recent home tour with YouTube channel Full Violence. The Brazilian fighter proudly showed off his sprawling mansion in his hometown of Guaruja, a coastal municipality in São Paulo state.
“Over there in the farm you have llamas, ostriches, horses, game, all kinds of animals,” Oliveira explained during the tour.
What caught the interviewers’ attention was Oliveira’s impressive bird sanctuary. Among his collection is an Australian cockatoo that cost between $50,000 and $80,000.
“It’s a Cacatua. I had to have one but it costs a lot of money. I knew once I had the money for it, I’d get one, so now we got it,” he said.
The exotic bird collection immediately drew comparisons to boxing legend Mike Tyson, who famously owned tigers. When asked if he wanted to emulate Tyson by acquiring a big cat, Oliveira admitted he had seriously considered it.
“You can’t have them here. Some time ago, I had everything built in the farm to be able to have them,” Oliveira explained. “I made the stuff to be able to have them, but man, there’s no way you can have it. Like, I’m not around much, you know? I’d have to leave them to the responsibility of my parents, so I can’t.”
Brazilian laws regarding exotic animal ownership and the practical considerations of caring for such a demanding animal ultimately dissuaded the UFC star from the purchase.
Oliveira’s home tour also showcased walls adorned with full-sized pictures of his UFC accomplishments, particularly highlighting his lightweight championship victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 262 in 2021.
The fighter known as “Do Bronxs” – a nickname referencing the favela where he grew up – has remained connected to his roots despite his success. His home features various treasures, including a scale model of a vintage McLaren F1 car and a prized FC Corinthians jersey gifted to him by Real Madrid soccer star Vinicius Jr.
Oliveira prepares for his upcoming bout against Topuria, and fans now have a better understanding of the unique personal life of one of UFC’s most accomplished fighters – a champion who considered following Tyson’s exotic pet choices but ultimately chose a different path.
