Charles Oliveira Returns Triumphant in Rio de Janeiro
In a spectacular return to his homeland, Charles Oliveira proved his worth after his recent defeat. Less than four months after suffering the worst knockout of his career, Oliveira secured a successful performance in Rio de Janeiro. Oliveira (36-11) submitted Mateusz Gamrot (25-4) with a rear naked choke at 2:48 of the second round in the main event of UFC Fight Night at the Farmasi Arena. This victory came just 105 days after Oliveira was knocked out in a lightweight title fight by Ilia Topuria. Many in the sports world feared that Oliveira was returning too soon to headline his first appearance in his home country since 2020, but there appeared to be no after-effects from the defeat.This triumph further solidifies Oliveira’s legacy in the UFC world. He extended his records for finishes (21) and submissions (17) in the UFC. In addition, he tied with Neil Magny on the list of most wins in UFC history with 24, surpassed only by Jim Miller, who has 27. Immediately after his victory, Oliveira reiterated his proposal to face the BMF champion and ranked lightweight Max Holloway, a match that dates back to 2015, when Holloway defeated Oliveira in a featherweight fight. Oliveira’s performance was characteristic from the start. He imposed his high-volume Muay Thai style. Gamrot, who replaced Rafael Fiziev, 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.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
In the second round, both fighters exchanged blows until Oliveira managed a body grip and lifted Gamrot off the ground. Finally, Oliveira took Gamrot’s back and applied the choke. This moment was something Oliveira had been waiting for since March 2020, when he headlined an event in Brazil in an empty stadium due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He then won the UFC championship in 2021, but never had the opportunity to defend his belt in Brazil.
Before this victory, Oliveira was already ranked number 4 in UFC lightweight. Gamrot was ranked number 8. Holloway (27-8) is coming off a decision over Dustin Poirier in July, after which Holloway indicated he would likely take the rest of 2025 off due to a right hand injury.
