Oliveira vs Fiziev Headlines UFC Rio Return

Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira will headline UFC Fight Night 261 in Rio de Janeiro on October 11, 2025, marking his first bout in Brazil in over five years. Oliveira, ranked No. 4, returns to his home country after a first-round knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in a vacant title fight earlier this summer and aims to reestablish himself as a top contender. His opponent, No. 10 ranked Rafael Fiziev, recently ended a three-fight skid with a unanimous decision win over Ignacio Bahamondes and is looking to climb the lightweight ranks. The event, held at Farmasi Arena, marks the UFC's first Fight Night in Rio since 2015. Additional bouts include the bantamweight debut of jiu-jitsu world champion Bia Mesquita and several significant heavyweight contests. Both Oliveira and Fiziev are seeking a pivotal win to move closer to a potential title shot.