Oliveira Shines in Rio: Epic Submission against Gamrot in Triumphant Return

Charles Oliveira Returns Triumphant in Rio de Janeiro

In a spectacular return to his homeland, Charles Oliveira proved his worth by submitting Mateusz Gamrot in the main event of UFC Fight Night held at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro. The victory came less than four months after suffering the worst knockout 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. This victory comes 105 days after Oliveira was knocked out by Ilia Topuria in a lightweight title fight.

“I’m trying to hold back the tears right now. This is for you, the Brazilian fans. This is not about money, fame, or status. This is for Brazil,” Oliveira declared through an interpreter.

Charles Oliveira

This victory further solidifies Oliveira’s legacy in the UFC world, extending his records for finishes (21) and submissions (17). In addition, he tied with Neil Magny on the UFC wins list with 24, only behind Jim Miller, who has 27. Immediately after his victory, Oliveira reiterated his proposal to face the BMF champion and ranked lightweight Max Holloway, whom he faced more than a decade ago in 2015.

“Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway, BMF. Let’s make this happen,” Oliveira stated.

Charles Oliveira

From the start, Oliveira imposed his characteristic style. He advanced on Gamrot with his high-volume Muay Thai style. Gamrot, who replaced Rafael Fiziev with little notice, managed a takedown in the first round, but Oliveira took advantage of the threat of an omoplata to reverse the position and take his opponent’s back.

In the second round, both fighters exchanged blows until Oliveira secured a body lock and lifted Gamrot off the ground, finishing with the rear naked choke. This moment represented a long wait for 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.

Before this victory, Oliveira was already ranked number 4 in the UFC lightweight rankings, while Gamrot was ranked number 8. Holloway is coming off a decision victory over Dustin Poirier in July.