Should Charles Oliveira not secure a victory on Saturday night, Dustin `The Diamond` Poirier`s influence could be a contributing factor.
Anticipation for the UFC Rio card will reach its peak as former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira steps into the main event. Following Rafael Fiziev`s withdrawal, Oliveira is set to face Mateusz Gamrot in a short-notice headliner, a significant opportunity for the Polish contender.
Known as ‘Do Bronx,’ Oliveira is determined to reclaim the lightweight title. His last reign as champion ended at UFC 269 in December 2021, where he famously submitted Dustin Poirier in the third round.
Years later, Dustin Poirier, `The Diamond,` aims to indirectly avenge that defeat by assisting a teammate in overcoming the popular Brazilian fighter.
Mateusz Gamrot Reveals Dustin Poirier Shared Crucial Intelligence on Charles Oliveira
Gamrot previously served as a primary training partner for Poirier towards the end of his career. Given that the now-retired former interim champion has fought Oliveira, his intimate knowledge of the Brazilian`s fighting style could offer Mateusz `Gamer` Gamrot a significant advantage.
The #8 ranked lightweight confirmed this during Wednesday`s media day, suggesting that Poirier has indeed provided him with potentially “game-changing” details regarding Oliveira`s approach.
“I have no fear of anything Charles intends to bring into the Octagon,” Gamrot stated confidently.
“While he is incredibly dangerous on the ground, I have identified certain vulnerabilities in his game. I recognize these, and when I get in there, the fight will conclude.”
Gamrot further elaborated, “Poirier offered me extensive advice. He instructed me on the optimal strategy to engage Charles.”
“However, I cannot disclose the specifics of his guidance at this moment. This information is profoundly valuable to me, and I believe it will be a decisive factor in this bout.”
Charles Oliveira Rejects Retirement Talk, Unlike Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier announced his retirement at UFC 318 after concluding his trilogy against Max Holloway in Louisiana. Conversely, Charles Oliveira will not be bidding farewell to the sport when he competes on home soil this Saturday.
Even after his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria prompted retirement suggestions from some observers, `Do Bronx` has steadfastly dismissed any notion of stepping away from professional fighting.
“The discussions about retirement exist solely in your minds,” Oliveira asserted during a fight week interview with MMA Junkie.
“I have never uttered a word about retiring… In every interview, the topic of retirement is raised. At no point have I ever considered or entertained such thoughts, yet the questions persist.”
“I am not contemplating it,” he concluded.
Beyond his unwavering pursuit of another lightweight title opportunity, Oliveira has also expressed interest in a potential clash with Conor McGregor, even humorously suggesting the White House as a venue in 2026.
Neville Whittle