Charles Oliveira didn’t take long to show who the better fighter was in the main event of UFC Fight Night 261. ‘Do Bronx’ submitted Mateusz Gamrot in the second round of their main event clash. The Polish contender, who stepped in on short notice after Rafael Fiziev’s injury, started strong by using his wrestling to control early exchanges.

However, Oliveira stayed composed, defending takedowns and threatening with submissions off his back. By the second round, the Brazilian turned the tide, locking in a tight rear-naked choke that forced Gamrot to tap. The Farmasi Arena erupted as Oliveira broke three records in one night, and so did Alex Pereira, who was in the crowd. 

Alex Pereira leaps out of the chair to celebrate Oliveira’s win

With the win, the 35-year-old created history and extended his record for the most submissions in UFC history to 17, solidifying his reputation as the most dangerous finisher in MMA. If that wasn’t enough, he extended his all-time record for most finishes in the promotion to 21, showcasing his ability to end fights in multiple ways.

And finally, Charles Oliveira’s win tied him for second-most overall victories in UFC history (24), placing him among legends like Jim Miller and Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone. USA Today’s Mike Bohn highlighted the same on X, writing, “Charles Oliveira adds to his legacy at #UFCRio. 24 UFC wins (T-2nd most in history), 21 UFC finishes (Most in history), 17 UFC submissions (Most in history).”

Meanwhile, the UFC released a clip of Alex Pereira reacting to Oliveira’s win live from the venue. ‘Poatan’ can be seen standing up from his chair, clapping to celebrate his fellow countryman’s success in the ring. UFC captioned the clip, “Two-time LHW Champion Alex Pereira reacts to #UFCRio’s main event finish.”

The clip also showed an emotional ‘Do Bronx’ leap into the raucous home crowd to celebrate with his family and fans amid chants and a sold-out arena atmosphere that had him visibly moved even before the fight. Regardless, it wasn’t just ‘Poatan’ who reacted to Oliveira’s win. 

Pros react to the dominance of Charles Oliveira

Immediately after the fight, Henry Cejudo penned a message for Oliveira. “10-9 Oliveira. The Predador isn’t messing around tonight,” Cejudo wrote on X. Meanwhile, fellow Brazilian mixed martial artist Herbert Burns wrote, “What a great BJJ exchange between Do Bronx and Gamrot! Oliveira is a step ahead!”

Aljamain Sterling was left stunned by Oliveira’s dominance. “HOLYYY!!! DO BRONX!!!” he tweeted. Derek Brunson added, “Charles Oliveira cooks Gamrot at home in Rio. Gamrot looked confident all week and thought he had the advantage. I guess he did until he didn’t. What a win!” Among many others, Billy Quarantillo congratulated Olivera, writing, “Do Broxxxxxxxxx big dub.”

Having said that, it was a night of redemption for Charles Oliveira, especially after his last loss to Ilia Topuria. What did you think of his performance? Who do you think is next for the Brazilian?