CHARLES OLIVEIRA defied all doctors' predictions and became the UFC lightweight champion.
The Brazilian was diagnosed with bone-rheumatism at the tender age seven. This is a condition in which the immune system accidentally releases antibodies that attack the linings of the joints.
Oliveira was most pained at his ankles, but his whole body was in constant pain.
There was a time in his life when doctors believed he would be permanently disabled. However, his mother Ozana refused to accept their prognosis.
ESPN spoke to her: "The doctor stated that he wouldn't walk and that he would use a wheelchair. We said no.
A young Oliveira could avoid the need for a wheelchair by following a strict treatment plan and receiving injections once every 15 days.
He was soon back on the football field with his friends.
ESPN reported that he said: "The doctors told me I couldn't play sport, but I told my mother and father, I would rather die than stop doing what I love."
"I believed in the sport. I had faith that God would bless me. He has been blessing me up to today."
Oliveira was first introduced to martial arts by his dad, Paulo.
Oliveira and Hermiston fell in love quickly with the sport. The brothers were awarded scholarships to the gym which alleviated the financial burden on Ozana.
Paulo was killed two years after introducing martial arts to the Oliveira Boys.
Oliveira remarked on his death, "He had become a part of our family for his heart, his respect with my parents and the love he had to me and my brother."
Oliveira understandably wishes Paulo were still alive to see the road to success that he set him on.
He said, "I'm certain that he sees all that has happened in mine from up there." He was the one who brought us to jiu jitsu. I wish he were here.
"I'm sure that he is proud to witness this happen. He always cheered and cheered.
He said that one day, we would be champions. And that we would bring joy to my parents as well."
Oliveira, who discovered mixed martial arts at age 18, turned pro and compiled a perfect 12-0 record. He made his UFC debut in 2010 with a flawless record of 12-0.
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Do Bronx's journey from a UFC title shot to 28 fights was the longest in UFC history. It spanned two weight classes and was filled with highlights as well as lowlights.
After racking up eight wins in a row, which was the second-best run of his career, he finally got his chance at UFC gold against Michael Chandler in May.
Oliveira also defied bone rheumatism and won the belt with a TKO victory in round 2.
Oliveira, in keeping with his quirky career, had to overcome tremendous obstacles in the first round to fulfill his dream of becoming UFC champion.
Oliveira, despite reaching the top of the MMA industry, is still humble and soft-spoken.
He plays a significant role in the community.
He revealed: "I still live in Vicente de Carvalho. He said, "I live in a different area, a slightly better house."
"I try to find improvements for us all, but I live in the community.
"I believe we must be happy.
"You must feel comfortable with the people you like, regardless of who you are or how much money you have.
"I know my roots and where I want it to be, but I don't want to leave them behind.
He said, "I try in all ways to help.
"I have friends, influential persons who don't want me to show up anymore. They want to donate basic food baskets so we go there to get it.
"I take my money, buy a basic food box and then we donate to the favela.
"I do something different because it goes to all the doors. Because the community is hungry and in need, sometimes more than one person from the same home will pick up basic baskets.
"So I prefer to deliver door to door, house to house." To make children happy, I try to always help them."
Oliveira, the Man of the People, will try to knock Dustin Poirier out of his title hopes early Sunday morning at UFC 269.
This submission artist is a polished example of philanthropy. However, he is determined to fulfill his dream of being a world champion.
He stated that "Two men, who deserve all of the respect in this world, are getting into the octagon.
"But when the gate is closed, brother, I know that my arm will be raised at its end. This belt will be mine for a long time."
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