Charles Oliveira Returns Triumphant in Rio de Janeiro
In a spectacular return to his homeland, Charles Oliveira proved his worth by defeating Mateusz Gamrot in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Rio de Janeiro. This victory comes less than four months after the toughest knockout loss of his career. Oliveira (36-11) submitted Gamrot (25-4) with a rear naked choke at 2 minutes and 48 seconds of the second round, at the Farmasi Arena. This victory came just 105 days after Oliveira was knocked out in a lightweight title fight.The victory further solidifies Oliveira’s legacy in the UFC, extending his records for finishes (21) and submissions (17). In addition, he tied with Neil Magny for the most wins in UFC history with 24, behind only Jim Miller, who has 27. Immediately after his triumph, Oliveira reiterated his desire to face BMF champion and ranked lightweight Max Holloway, a fight that had already been proposed before the fight. The fight was a characteristic display from Oliveira from the start. Gamrot, who replaced Rafael Fiziev with little notice, tried to take Oliveira to the ground in the first round, but Oliveira used the threat of an omoplata to reverse the position and take Gamrot’s back. In the second round, both fighters exchanged blows until Oliveira managed a body lock and lifted Gamrot off the ground. Finally, Oliveira took Gamrot’s back and applied the rear-naked choke. This was a moment expected by Oliveira since March 2020, when he headlined an event in Brazil in an empty stadium due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although he won the UFC championship in 2021, he never had the opportunity to defend his belt in Brazil.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
Before this victory, Oliveira was already ranked number 4 in the UFC lightweight rankings, while Gamrot was number 8. Holloway (27-8) is coming off a decision victory over Dustin Poirier in July.
