Ranked quantity ten within the UFC light-weight division, Rafael Fiziev was initially scheduled to face fan favourite and former light-weight champion Charles Oliveira in the primary occasion of UFC Combat Evening: Rio de Janeiro on October 11. Oliveira is coming off a primary spherical knockout loss in his try and reclaim the UFC title in opposition to Ilia Topuria. His fast return to competitors, simply 4 months after that defeat, drew widespread criticism from the MMA group.
With Fiziev compelled to withdraw attributable to a knee harm, the standing of the primary occasion was left unsure. Nevertheless, Oliveira remained dedicated to competing in entrance of his dwelling crowd. In consequence, quantity eight ranked light-weight contender Mateusz Gamrot stepped in as a late alternative to protect the occasion’s headliner.
Gamrot’s Huge Break or Oliveira’s Gamble? UFC Rio Predominant Occasion Heats Up
Combating out of Poland, Mateusz Gamrot holds a powerful 25 and three file. With notable victories over former champion Rafael dos Anjos and the initially scheduled opponent Rafael Fiziev. On paper, Gamrot is a transparent step up in competitors for Charles Oliveira.
The Double-barreled query many at the moment are asking is whether or not Oliveira will profit from the quick discover nature of the bout, or if Gamrot, who is taken into account a harder stylistic matchup, has lastly discovered the chance he has been ready for. That is his probability to face a preferred opponent on a significant stage.
Gamrot’s response to the information was captured in a video posted to social media, the place he repeatedly exclaimed “Whoa!” and even appeared to test his arm for goosebumps. It’s probably that the UFC provided him a considerable monetary incentive to step in and assist hold the occasion intact.
Nevertheless, the elephant within the room stays Oliveira’s mind, significantly whether or not he has had sufficient time to get well from the knockout loss he suffered simply 4 months in the past. Many specialists consider that’s merely not sufficient time.
Regardless of these considerations, Charles Oliveira stays decided to signify Brazil in entrance of a house crowd. With Mateusz Gamrot stepping in as a excessive degree alternative, the primary occasion has gained new intrigue and raised the stakes for each fighters.
