In a triumphant return to his homeland, the outstanding fighter Charles Oliveira demonstrated his worth in Rio de Janeiro, just four months after suffering the most painful knockout of his career. Oliveira (36-11) submitted Mateusz Gamrot (25-4) with a rear-naked choke at 2 minutes and 48 seconds of the second round, in the main event of UFC Fight Night held at the Farmasi Arena. This victory comes 105 days after Oliveira was knocked out in a lightweight title fight by Ilia Topuria. Despite concerns about a possible rushed return, Oliveira dispelled any doubts.
This victory enriches Oliveira’s already impressive legacy, who expanded his UFC records for finishes (21) and submissions (17). In addition, he tied Neil Magny on the list of most wins in UFC history, with 24, only behind Jim Miller, who has 27. Immediately after his triumph, Oliveira reiterated his desire to face BMF champion and ranked lightweight Max Holloway, a match dating back to 2015. Holloway defeated Oliveira in a featherweight bout that had a peculiar ending.I’m trying to hold back the tears right now. This is for you, the Brazilian fans. This isn’t about money, fame, or status. This is for Brazil.
Charles Oliveira
From the start, Oliveira imposed his characteristic style, pressuring Gamrot with his high-volume Muay Thai. Gamrot, who replaced Rafael Fiziev, tried to take Oliveira to the ground in the first round, but Oliveira reversed the position, managing to take his opponent’s back. In the second round, after an exchange of blows, Oliveira secured a bodylock, lifting Gamrot and finishing with the choke. This moment was expected by Oliveira since March 2020, when he headlined an event in Brazil without an audience due to the pandemic.Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway, BMF. Let’s make this happen.
Charles Oliveira
Before this victory, Oliveira was already ranked number 4 in the UFC lightweight rankings, while Gamrot was number 8. Max Holloway is coming off a decision victory over Dustin Poirier in July.
