UFC Rio: Charles Oliveira vs. Mateusz Gamrot Main Event Prediction
UFC Rio is set to happen this weekend at the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro, promising an electrifying night. The main event features former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira taking on Mateusz Gamrot in a highly anticipated clash. Oliveira, considered a national hero, returns to fight in Brazil after a long hiatus, creating massive excitement among local fans.
Both fighters have expressed supreme confidence in their preparation and mindset, each determined to leave with a decisive victory. Nevertheless, here is a detailed breakdown of which fighter has a better chance of getting his hands raised at UFC Rio.
Charles Oliveira
Charles Oliveira stands as one of the most entertaining and widely admired fighters currently competing on the stacked UFC roster. Early in his UFC career, ‘Do Bronx’ faced significant challenges, enduring multiple setbacks and defeats before finding his rhythm and consistent success. His remarkable lightweight title run featured some of the most thrilling and memorable fights in modern UFC history.
After losing his championship belt to Islam Makhachev in 2022, Oliveira dedicated himself to reclaiming his position at the top. In his previous fight at UFC 317, the Brazilian faced Ilia Topuria for the title and suffered a brutal knockout defeat. Only four months have passed since that loss, and Oliveira’s quick return has sparked concerns about his recovery and conditioning.
Mateusz Gamrot
Initially, Charles Oliveira was scheduled to face Rafael Fiziev, but Mateusz Gamrot stepped in after Fiziev withdrew due to injury. Gamrot is recognized as one of the most technically skilled and dominant wrestlers in the highly competitive UFC lightweight division. Throughout his career, the Polish fighter has shared the Octagon with top-tier opponents.
He holds impressive victories over seasoned fighters like Rafael dos Anjos, Arman Tsarukyan, and, most recently, dominantly defeated Ľudovít Klein. For Gamrot, facing an elite name like Oliveira represents a massive opportunity to climb the rankings and strengthen his championship aspirations. The Polish fighter has made significant sacrifices, spending months away from family, focusing entirely on preparation.
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What time is the fight?
The main fight card of UFC Rio is scheduled to begin at 12:00 am BST, catering to fans across the United Kingdom. Before that, the preliminary card will commence earlier at 9:00 pm BST, giving fans plenty of action before the main event. In the United States, viewers can tune in at 7:00 pm ET for the main card, streamed live on ESPN+.
Statistical Matchup
| CATEGORY | Charles Oliveira | Mateusz Gamrot |
| AGE | 35 | 34 |
| HEIGHT | 5’10” | 5’10” |
| REACH | 74″ | 70.5″ |
| PRO RECORD | 35-11-0 | 25-3-0 |
| FIGHTING OUT OF | Guarujá, Brazil | Bielsko-Biała, Poland |
Final Prediction
Despite the concerns surrounding Charles Oliveira’s brutal knockout loss and short recovery period, he still carries strong fan confidence. Oliveira is one of the best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specialists in the UFC, holding the record for the most submission victories overall. The Brazilian star has promised his supporters that he’s fully recovered, mentally sharp, and prepared to defend his undefeated streak at home.
Mateusz Gamrot, however, faces enormous pressure stepping into hostile territory, surrounded by passionate Brazilian fans cheering loudly against him. During the open workouts, Gamrot was loudly booed by the crowd while local favorite Pereira received thunderous applause and admiration.
Although Gamrot possesses the skill to resist Oliveira’s grappling exchanges, his striking lacks precision compared to the experienced ‘Do Bronx’. This matchup promises a grueling, high-paced five-round battle that will test both fighters’ endurance and mental toughness thoroughly.
Charles Oliveira to win via unanimous decision.
READ MORE: Can Charles Oliveira recapture his former glory at UFC Rio?
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