Cheima Moufdil
Charles Oliveira reminded the world why he remains one of the most dangerous lightweights on the planet, dismantling Mateusz Gamrot en route to a stunning second-round submission victory in the UFC Rio main event.
With the Brazilian crowd roaring in his corner, Oliveira looked rejuvenated from the opening bell. The former champion erased any doubts about returning too soon after his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria, charging at Gamrot with relentless pressure and confidence. After dominating the first round, Oliveira dragged the fight to the canvas in the second, where he locked in a vicious rear-naked choke that resembled a face crank, forcing Gamrot to tap at 2:48 of Round 2.
Emotion poured out of Oliveira as he brought his family into the Octagon, addressing the crowd through tears: “This is all for you guys. This is not about money, fame, or status. Screw it — this is Brazil!”
The fight showcased vintage Oliveira — creative, fearless, and ruthless. He kept Gamrot constantly reacting, threatening submissions from the bottom with an omoplata early on, and later seizing every opening in the scrambles. Even when Gamrot found some rhythm on the feet, Oliveira’s composure and counterattacks quickly turned the tide.
When the fight hit the mat again, Oliveira wasted no time climbing to the back, tightening his grip until Gamrot had no escape. It was a clinical finish that reignited the crowd and reaffirmed Oliveira’s place among the elite.
Afterward, the Brazilian made his intentions clear — he’s chasing another belt. Looking toward UFC executive Hunter Campbell at cageside, Oliveira called out:?“Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway — ‘BMF’ — let’s make that happen.”
A fired-up, focused Oliveira back in Brazil — and back in the winner’s circle — is a reminder that “Do Bronx” isn’t done chasing greatness just yet.