**Charles Oliveira Triumphs Over Michael Chandler in Dramatic UFC 309 Rematch**

Charles Oliveira showcased his resilience and skill in a gripping rematch against Michael Chandler on Saturday at UFC 309. The former lightweight champion secured a unanimous decision victory and moved closer to another shot at the 155-pound title.

In the much-anticipated co-main event at Madison Square Garden, Oliveira (35-10, 1 NC) demonstrated his grappling dominance throughout the first four rounds, securing crucial takedowns and consistently threatening submissions. Judges scored the contest 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45 in favor of Oliveira, marking his second win over Chandler (23-9), following their 2021 encounter where Oliveira claimed the vacant lightweight belt via second-round TKO.

Despite Oliveira’s dominance, Chandler nearly turned the tide in the exhilarating fifth round. He began with a strong right hand to Oliveira's eye, and although his follow-up strike missed, it led to an intense scramble that saw Chandler gain top control. Chandler unleashed a barrage of punches and elbows, testing Oliveira’s durability to the limit. This tenacious effort from Chandler came after a two-year layoff, during which he had unsuccessfully sought a bout with Conor McGregor.

Reflecting on Chandler's performance, Oliveira expressed his respect, highlighting Chandler’s toughness and determination. Even though Chandler’s heavy offensive in the final minutes threatened to alter the match's outcome, Oliveira managed to stay composed and reverted to his grappling roots in the closing seconds, scoring a takedown to secure his victory.

The fight was a stark contrast between Oliveira's calculated approach in the initial rounds and Chandler’s explosive resurgence in the final moments. Oliveira’s arsenal included flying knees and sharp elbows, particularly evident in the third round where he almost secured a choke after another successful takedown.

As Oliveira eyes another title shot, the current UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, is set to defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan. Oliveira previously faced a split decision loss to Tsarukyan at UFC 300.

With this victory, Oliveira now ties for second place for the most wins in UFC history, with a total of 23 victories, just behind Jim Miller's record of 27 wins. Oliveira's determination to stay in contention for the title was evident as he expressed his readiness to challenge the champion in early 2025.

His victory at UFC 309 not only reaffirms his position as a top contender but also adds another thrilling chapter to his storied career in the octagon.