Charles do Bronx – Photo: Instagram
Charles do Bronx is back in the Brazilian octagon! The former UFC lightweight champion will face Azerbaijani Rafael Fiziev in the main event of UFC Rio, scheduled for October 11, 2025, at Farmasi Arena in Barra da Tijuca. After a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 in June and months sidelined by injuries, the Brazilian returns to his home country for the first time since 2020, aiming to reignite his path to the title. Fiziev, ranked 10th in the lightweight division, comes off a victory and promises an explosive showdown. The fight, set at 155 pounds, headlines a card that’s already stirring fans. The event marks UFC’s return to Rio after its last edition in May 2024, with the crowd expecting a memorable spectacle.
The announcement, made official by the UFC and Charles himself on social media, generated huge anticipation. “We’ll turn the arena into a cauldron and make history,” declared the Brazilian, emphasizing the emotional appeal of fighting before his home crowd. Choosing Fiziev as the opponent surprised some fans, as the ex-champion hasn’t fought in a Fight Night since 2020. The matchup promises a clash of styles: Charles’ precision jiu-jitsu against Fiziev’s aggressive muay thai.
- Charles’ motivation: The Brazilian seeks redemption after the loss to Topuria and aims to reclaim his path to the title.
- Return to Brazil: It’s Charles’ first fight in Rio, following notable victories in other Brazilian cities.
- Fiziev’s style: Known for knockouts, the Azerbaijani aims to cement his name among the division’s elite.
- Fan expectations: The Brazilian crowd is set to pack Farmasi Arena, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Charles do Bronx’s return to Brazil
Charles Oliveira, known as “Do Bronx,” is one of Brazil’s biggest MMA stars. At 35, he holds UFC records, including the most finishes (16) and performance bonuses (20). His last fight in Brazil was in March 2020 against Kevin Lee in Brasília, in an event without fans due to the pandemic. Now, the scene is different: Farmasi Arena in Rio’s west zone is expected to host thousands of fans cheering for the ex-champion. Charles headlining the card reflects his popularity and UFC’s bet on drawing a large crowd.
The São Paulo native has faced recent challenges. After losing the belt to Islam Makhachev in 2022, he’s had mixed results, with the knockout loss to Topuria being a low point. Still, ranked 4th in the lightweight division, Charles shows resilience. His role in UFC Rio is seen as a chance to rebuild confidence and move closer to another title shot.
Rafael Fiziev: the rising challenger
Rafael Fiziev, 32, is a rising star in the lightweight division. Born in Kyrgyzstan and representing Azerbaijan, he’s known for his technical muay thai and powerful strikes. After a serious knee injury in 2023 sidelined him for nearly 18 months, Fiziev returned in June 2025, defeating Ignacio Bahamondes by unanimous decision at UFC Baku. The win snapped a three-fight skid, including losses to Justin Gaethje and Mateusz Gamrot.
- Record: Fiziev has 13 wins and 4 losses, with knockouts against names like Rafael dos Anjos and Renato Moicano.
- Fighting style: A striking specialist, he combines speed and precision, challenging Charles’ ground game.
- Motivation: Beating Do Bronx could put him on the path to the title, currently held by Ilia Topuria.
- Statement: “I’m counting the days,” Fiziev posted on X, showing excitement for the matchup.
The Azerbaijani has wanted to face Charles since 2022, and now he’ll get the chance to prove himself against one of the division’s biggest names. His aggressive approach promises a dynamic fight, with chances for a knockout or submission.
Charles’ history in Brazil
Charles do Bronx has an impeccable record on Brazilian soil. He’s won all six fights in the country, including notable victories over Jeremy Stephens in 2014 and Jared Gordon in 2019. His last Brazilian appearance, against Kevin Lee, was in an empty Brasília arena due to pandemic restrictions. Now, UFC Rio marks his octagon debut in the city, a moment long awaited by fans who see him as a symbol of perseverance.
The Brazilian, born in Guarujá, São Paulo, rose from a humble childhood to become a global MMA star. His connection with fans is a key factor making the event so anticipated. “It’s an honor to fight in Brazil again. I’m counting on everyone’s energy,” Charles posted on social media, boosting the emotional stakes of the fight.
UFC Rio’s fight card
Beyond the main event, UFC Rio is shaping up with other high-profile bouts. ESPN confirmed advanced talks for a welterweight clash between Vicente Luque and Santiago Ponzinibbio, promising another explosive matchup. Other confirmed Brazilian fighters include:
- Vitor Petrino: Facing Thomas Petersen in the heavyweight division.
- Jhonata Diniz: Taking on Mario Pinto, also in the heavyweights.
- Bia Mesquita: Making her UFC debut against Irina Alekseeva in the bantamweight division.
- Julia Polastri and Lucas Rocha: Additional Brazilian names on the card.
The event, a Fight Night, won’t feature a title fight, but Charles and other Brazilians elevate the excitement. Farmasi Arena, which hosted UFC 301 in May 2024, is known for its electric atmosphere, and the UFC is banking on Charles’ appeal to fill the venue.
UFC’s strategy for the event
Choosing Charles do Bronx as the main event reflects a bold UFC strategy. Hosting events in Brazil is financially challenging due to high operational costs and the devalued Brazilian real against the dollar. Past events, like UFC 301 with Alexandre Pantoja, didn’t sell out. Charles’ popularity, however, is seen as a trump card to draw crowds and justify the investment.
UFC Rio will be the 13th event in the city but the first Fight Night since 2015. The absence of a title fight makes Charles’ selection even more significant, as his charisma and track record can offset the lack of a belt. Ticket pre-sales are already underway, a critical factor for the event’s commercial success.
Fight expectations
The Charles vs. Fiziev bout is anticipated as one of the year’s most thrilling. Charles, with his elite jiu-jitsu, has the edge on the ground, while Fiziev dominates in striking. Analysts suggest Charles will need to avoid stand-up exchanges to seek a submission, while Fiziev will rely on precision for a potential knockout. The fight has a high chance of ending before the five-round limit, given both fighters’ histories.
- Charles’ strengths: Submissions, main event experience, and home crowd support.
- Fiziev’s strengths: Striking, speed, and physical conditioning post-recovery.
- Recent form: Charles has mixed results, while Fiziev seeks consistency.
- Ranking impact: A win could position either fighter closer to a title shot.
- Commercial appeal: The matchup is a test for the Brazilian market.
The passionate Brazilian crowd is expected to turn Farmasi Arena into an electrifying venue. The event also marks UFC’s return to Rio after a nearly 18-month hiatus, underscoring Brazil’s importance in the MMA calendar.
Other card highlights
Beyond the main event, UFC Rio promises more standout moments. The potential Luque vs. Ponzinibbio welterweight fight, featuring two aggressive veterans, adds excitement. Bia Mesquita’s debut, as a multi-time jiu-jitsu world champion, also draws attention, especially her transition to MMA. The presence of other Brazilians like Vitor Petrino and Jhonata Diniz strengthens the card’s national appeal.
UFC Rio will be streamed on UFC Fight Pass, with live coverage on ESPN and Disney+. The event is expected to reaffirm Brazil as a key UFC market, with Charles do Bronx leading the charge.
