Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira returns to the spotlight this Saturday night at UFC Rio, where he’ll face Poland’s Mateusz Gamrot in a high-stakes main event clash.
With potential title implications on the line, the matchup pits Oliveira’s world-class submission game against Gamrot’s relentless wrestling and pace in what promises to be a thrilling battle in front of the Brazilian crowd.
Oliveira (35-11) is looking to bounce back from a tough TKO loss to lightweight champion Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 in June. The former titleholder now aims to climb back into contention with a statement-making main event victory in front of his home crowd in Rio.
Gamrot (25-3) steps in on short notice to replace the injured Rafael Fiziev, seizing a massive opportunity in Rio. Fresh off a win over Ľudovít Klein in May, the Polish contender hopes to strengthen his case for a title shot with a statement victory over Oliveira.
Round 1 – Mateusz Gamrot made an unforgettable entrance at UFC Rio, sprinting full speed to the octagon and nearly diving into the front row before the fight even began.
Once the action started, both fighters met in the center, with Oliveira immediately working his front kicks to keep Gamrot at range. The former champion unleashed sharp combinations, forcing Gamrot to stay patient as he looked for an opening to shoot.
Eventually, Gamrot secured the takedown he’d been waiting for, kicking off a wild grappling exchange. Oliveira threatened with an omoplata, lost the position briefly, then adjusted and regained control, using the submission attempt to scramble on top.
Gamrot went to his knees, but Oliveira stayed relentless, transitioning to a back take and locking himself on like a backpack. The Polish contender managed to survive the round, but Oliveira’s jiu-jitsu had already set the tone.
Round 2 – Back in the center of the cage, Oliveira returned to his distance-managing front kicks while Gamrot started to find his rhythm, letting his combinations go, though little landed clean early on.
Gamrot eventually connected with a few solid shots, but the former champion responded with trademark aggression, inviting the exchanges. Oliveira then shot for a takedown, nearly secured it, and seamlessly transitioned to Gamrot’s back.
Moments later, ‘Do Bronx’ locked in the rear-naked choke and forced the tap, sealing another signature finish before leaping into the crowd to celebrate.
Charles Oliveira was victorious once again in emphatic fashion.
Official Result: Charles Oliveira def. Mateusz Gamrot via R2 SUB (RNC), 2:48
