Charles Oliveira Hesitant to Accept Mateusz Gamrot Fight Over ‘Style’ Clash

Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira shares the risk involved in fighting a grappler like Mateusz Gamrot at UFC Rio.

Charles Oliveira Hesitant to Accept Mateusz Gamrot Fight Over ‘Style’ Clash

Charles Oliveira believes it's complicated to fight Mateusz Gamrot (via X)

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A few months ago, Charles Oliveira was brutally knocked out by Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 on June 28 during his attempt to capture the lightweight gold. Although many fans believed the Brazilian would take a long break from fighting, ‘Do Bronx’ is ready to get back in action in just 105 days.

Oliveira is expected to headline UFC Rio on October 11, but there are still significant issues regarding the selection of his opponent. Initially, Oliveira was scheduled to face Rafael Fiziev, who had secured a win at his previous outing at UFC Baku. Unfortunately, with only a few weeks remaining before the clash, the Azerbaijan native was forced to withdraw due to injury.

This sudden withdrawal created an opportunity for other ambitious lightweights to step in and challenge the former champion, including Mateusz Gamrot. However, in a recent interview, Oliveira admitted that facing a strong wrestler like Gamrot would present significant difficulties for him. 

I was focused on a guy who comes from a striking background… with two weeks left until the fight, I have to change my whole gameplan. It’s very complicated. I don’t want to be taken off the card. I asked for this card, I’ve been training like crazy for it…[Gamrot] is a good matchup for me in a sense because he’s a wrestler/grappler. But it’s completely different from the style.

Charles Oliveira via Laerte Viana

Gamrot responded by stating he lacked sufficient preparation time for Oliveira, yet still felt determined to accept the fight. With only two weeks remaining until the main event, he believes that timeframe is enough for both fighters to strategize. In his most recent fight, the Polish lightweight defeated Ľudovít Klein, successfully rebounding after his previous setback against Dan Hooker.

The Polish 155-pounder is recognized for his wrestling expertise, having even helped fighters like Dustin Poirier sharpen and improve their ground game at American Top Team. Meanwhile, Oliveira remains regarded as the most dangerous grappler in UFC history, holding the record for most submission victories. Although no official confirmation exists, fans agree it would be interesting to watch these two specialists clash.

Former UFC featherweight title contender ready to fight Charles Oliveira 

Charles Oliveira is undeniably among the UFC’s most popular fighters, admired globally for his exciting fighting style and humble personality. Despite early setbacks at the beginning of his UFC career, Oliveira persevered through challenges and ultimately captured the lightweight championship. He successfully defended his belt against Dustin Poirier and defeated Justin Gaethje, despite being stripped of his title.

Diego Lopes is ready to fight Charles Oliveira
Diego Lopes is ready to fight Charles Oliveira (via X)

All this turned  Oliveira into a Brazilian hero, and UFC Rio offers him the opportunity to fight before home fans. That is the primary reason why ‘Do Bronx’ is prepared to compete again, despite limited recovery time after suffering a knockout. After hearing reports of Oliveira lacking an opponent, fellow Brazilian Diego Lopes expressed interest in stepping into the Octagon against him.

Of course, why not? Of course I’d accept, especially because Charles is a legend. And like I’ve always said man, I’ll never turn down a fight. If you think I’m the right guy to fight him and you call me, then definitely yes, no problem, without even thinking twice.

Diego Lopes via Laerte Viana

Lopes recently headlined Noche UFC against Jean Silva, where he secured an impressive TKO victory, reestablishing himself as a rising contender. The victory was crucial for Lopes, as it allowed him to bounce back from his earlier loss against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 314.

A potential fight against former champion Oliveira at lightweight could tremendously boost Lopes’ popularity and enhance his global recognition. Ultimately, it remains interesting to watch what UFC decides regarding Oliveira’s uncertain fighting future.

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