An emotional Charles do Bronx explains his gesture after his victory at UFC Rio: 'I just wanted to be with my family'

After the submission, the former lightweight champion jumped over the fence to connect with those watching him.

Charles celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Charles celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

the return of Charles of the Bronx to the Brazilian octagon was more than a high-level performance. In the main fight of UFC Rio, held last Saturday (11), at Farmasi Arena, the former lightweight champion dominated and submitted the Polish Mateusz gamrot in the second round, drawing applause and cheers from the Rio fans. But it was outside the octagon that the Brazilian starred in one of the most memorable moments of the night.

Immediately after securing victory with a technical choke, Charles ignored protocol and jumped over the octagon fence, heading straight into the crowd. The gesture, which sparked excitement and euphoria in the stands, was explained by the fighter himself at the post-event press conference, which was attended by SUPER FIGHTS.

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"It may seem silly, but honestly, one of the things I wanted most in my life was to be able to put my father, my wife, and my children up there with me. I didn't know if it was allowed, if the UFC would fight me or not. I just wanted to go to the fans, be close to them," Charles revealed, visibly emotional.

In addition to his family, the Chute Boxe athlete also celebrated with teammates, such as Allan Puro Osso e Marcus Tullius, who were present in the chairs close to the octagon.

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“When I went to Chute Boxe, I looked at these kids and said: 'They are phenomenal.' And today, being able to hug them, feel this affection, these are things you will never forget,” he added.

The victory against Gamrot marks Charles' comeback after the loss to Ilia Topuria No. UFC 317 and puts him back on track for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg). The São Paulo native asked to face Max Holloway for the BMF belt in the sequence.

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