Should Charles Oliveira not emerge victorious this Saturday night, Dustin Poirier, known as ‘The Diamond,’ could be a significant factor in that outcome.
Anticipation for the UFC Rio event will reach its peak as a prominent figure in the sport steps into the octagon for the main event. Following Rafael Fiziev`s withdrawal, former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira is now set to face Mateusz Gamrot in a last-minute main event booking for the Polish fighter.
‘Do Bronx’ is still determined to reclaim the lightweight title. He hasn`t held the championship since UFC 269 in December 2021, where he famously submitted Dustin Poirier in the third round. Years after their encounter, ‘The Diamond’ now has an opportunity to indirectly avenge his loss by assisting a teammate in overcoming the popular Brazilian fighter.
Mateusz Gamrot Reveals Dustin Poirier`s “Game-Changing” Insights on Charles Oliveira
Gamrot served as one of Poirier’s primary training partners during the latter stages of his career. Given that the now-retired former interim champion has previously competed against Oliveira, his unique perspective on the Brazilian`s fighting style could provide `Gamer` with a crucial advantage.
The No. 8-ranked lightweight hinted at this during media day on Wednesday, suggesting that Poirier had indeed shared some “game-changing” information regarding Oliveira.
Gamrot stated, “I am not afraid of anything Charles wants to bring to the Octagon. He’s super dangerous on the ground, but I see some holes in his game. I see this, and I believe the fight’s going to be over.”
He continued, “Poirier gave me a lot of advice. He specifically told me how I need to approach fighting Charles. I can’t reveal the details right now, but this information is incredibly valuable to me. I think it’s going to be a game-changer during this fight.”
Charles Oliveira Dismisses Retirement Talk
Poirier announced his retirement at UFC 318 after concluding his trilogy with Max Holloway in Louisiana. However, as Oliveira prepares to compete on his home turf this Saturday, he will not be making a similar farewell.
Despite some suggestions for Oliveira to retire following his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria, ‘Do Bronx’ has strongly refuted any discussion about him hanging up his gloves.
In a recent interview, Oliveira asserted, “The retirement talk is purely in your guys’ heads. I’ve never said anything about retiring. Every interview I give, people bring up ‘retirement, retirement.’ At no point have I ever thought or contemplated that, but all the questions are the same.”
He added, “I’m not thinking about it.”
Furthermore, Oliveira remains hopeful of securing another lightweight title shot and has even expressed interest in a potential fight with Conor McGregor in 2026.
