A lightweight bout between former champion Charles Oliveira and Top 10-ranked contender Mateusz Gamrot headlined Saturday’s UFC Fight Night event in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Oliveira was originally slated to take on No. 10 ranked Rafael Fiziev, but a knee injury forced Fiziev out of the fight. Gamrot, ranked No. 8 in the weight class, stepped in on short notice.
Oliveira entered the bout coming off a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in June for the then-vacant lightweight crown. Some questioned whether the Brazilian was returning too soon after such a brutal knockout loss.
Gamrot made the walk to the octagon coming off a unanimous decision win over Ľudovít Klein in May. When Fiziev withdrew, Gamrot jumped at the opportunity to face the former champion.
Oliveira utilized kicks early to keep the distance. He stepped forward with a combination. Gamrot changed levels and took Oliveira down. Oliveira isolated an arm but Gamrot got it free. Oliveira again isolated an arm. He gained top position. Gamrot rolled to his knees. Oliveira took his back with just under two minutes remaining in the round. Gamrot stood but Oliveira remained on his back. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Oliveira.
Oliveira took the center of the cage to start the second frame. Gamrot got hit with a right hand. Oliveira kept his guard high blocking most of Gamrot’s punches. Oliveira pressed forward and connected with a left. Gamrot responded with a right. Oliveira clinched and delivered an elbow before separating. Oliveira pressured Gamrot and slammed him to the canvas. He took his back and sunk in a rear-naked choke. Gamrot was forced to tap out.
The official time of the submission finish was 2:48 of the second round.
