Get ready for an electrifying night of MMA action because UFC Fight Night 261 is here, and it’s packed with matchups that could redefine the sport’s landscape! But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Charles Oliveira, the legendary former lightweight champion, truly defend his legacy on home soil against the rising star Mateusz Gamrot? And this is the part most people miss—the co-main event features Deiveson Figueiredo, a two-time flyweight champion, battling Montel Jackson in what could be a career-defining moment for both fighters.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 11, 2025, as the Farmasi Arena in Rio de Janeiro becomes the epicenter of combat sports. The action kicks off at 4 p.m. ET (1 p.m. PT) with the preliminary card on ESPN+, followed by the main card at 7 p.m. ET (4 p.m. PT), also on ESPN+. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, this event promises adrenaline-pumping moments you won’t want to miss.
Charles Oliveira (35-11 MMA, 23-11 UFC), a future UFC Hall of Famer, steps into the Octagon with a point to prove. But Mateusz Gamrot (25-3 MMA, 8-3 UFC) isn’t just any challenger—he’s a fighter on the cusp of greatness, and this bout could be his ticket to the top. Meanwhile, Deiveson Figueiredo (24-5-1 MMA, 13-5-1 UFC) looks to reclaim his dominance in the flyweight division against Montel Jackson (15-2 MMA, 9-2 UFC), who’s hungry to prove he belongs in the title conversation.
Here’s the full lineup to keep you on the edge of your seat:
MAIN CARD (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+)
- Charles Oliveira vs. Mateusz Gamrot: A battle of experience vs. momentum.
- Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Montel Jackson: Flyweight fireworks guaranteed.
- Vicente Luque vs. Joel Alvarez: Striking specialists collide.
- Jhonata Diniz vs. Mario Pinto: A clash of rising contenders.
- Ricardo Ramos vs. Kaan Ofli: Speed and precision on display.
- Lucas Almeida vs. Michael Aswell Jr.: Two prospects looking to make a statement.
PRELIMINARY CARD (4 p.m. ET, ESPN+)
- Jafel Filho vs. Clayton Carpenter: Who will set the tone for the night?
- Vitor Petrino vs. Thomas Petersen: A test of power and technique.
- Bia Mesquita vs. Irina Alekseeva: Women’s MMA takes center stage.
- Lucas Rocha vs. Stewart Nicoll: A gritty matchup to watch.
- Julia Polastri vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz: Experience meets ambition.
- Saimon Oliveira vs. Luan Lacerda: Local talent shines in Rio.
But here’s the real question: Will Oliveira’s experience prevail, or will Gamrot’s hunger steal the show? And can Figueiredo reclaim his throne, or will Jackson upset the odds? Let us know your predictions in the comments—this is one event where every fight counts!
Enjoy the fights, everyone, and remember: in the UFC, anything can happen. Who will rise, and who will fall? Tune in to find out!
