Oliveira Submits Gamrot in Brazil: Triumphant Return with Eyes on Holloway

Charles Oliveira Returns Triumphant in Rio de Janeiro

Charles Oliveira demonstrated his resilience and talent by securing a spectacular victory in his return home in Rio de Janeiro, just four months after suffering a tough setback in 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 came just 105 days after Oliveira was knocked out in a lightweight title fight. Many in the sports world feared that Oliveira would rush to return to the octagon to headline his first appearance in Brazil since 2020, but the fighter proved to be in top form.

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

This victory adds a new chapter to Oliveira’s already impressive legacy, extending his UFC records for finishes (21) and submissions (17). In addition, he tied with 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 the BMF champion and ranked lightweight, Max Holloway. Both fighters faced each other more than a decade ago, in 2015, where Holloway defeated Oliveira.

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

Charles Oliveira

From the start of the fight, Oliveira imposed his characteristic style. He pressured Gamrot with his usual high-volume Muay Thai style. Gamrot, who replaced Rafael Fiziev with little notice, managed a takedown in the first round, but Oliveira reversed the position and took his opponent’s back.

In the second round, both exchanged blows until Oliveira secured a clinch, lifting Gamrot off the ground. Finally, Oliveira secured Gamrot’s back and applied the choke.

This victory was a moment Oliveira had been waiting for since March 2020, when he headlined an event in Brazil in an empty arena due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although he won the UFC championship in 2021, he never had the opportunity to defend his belt in his home country.

Before this victory, Oliveira was already ranked number 4 in the UFC lightweight rankings. Gamrot, for his part, occupied the number 8 position. Holloway, after his decision victory over Dustin Poirier in July, announced that he would probably take the rest of 2025 off due to an injury to his right hand.