Charles Oliveira showed that he is still one of the very best lightweights in the world with his performance at UFC 309 on Saturday night.
"Do Bronx" dominated Michael Chandler for four rounds at the Garden but as is often the case with these two competitors, chaos was just around the corner.
Chandler needed a finish and he nearly got one in the fifth round, coming so close to stopping Oliveira just like in his first fight with the former champion at UFC 262.
In both of their fights, the Brazilian was able to withstand his opponent's offence, recover and bounce back.
In his post-fight interview inside the Octagon, Oliveira dedicated the win to the newest member of his family, via translator Fabiano Buskei:
"Thank you for all the love. My wins have always been for my daughter but also now I have a son, Dominick. This win is for Dominick."
Oliveira was way ahead on the scorecards heading into the wild final round after winning the first four on all three scorecards, including judge Ron McCarthy awarding him a 10-8 in the second round.
The Octagon veteran was seemingly on the edge of finishing "Iron" Mike at several points in the fight but Chandler's toughness kept him in there.
Oliveira and Chandler embraced during Joe Rogan's interview in the aftermath where "Do Bronx" gave his dance partner some credit.
"This guy is one of the toughest guys I've ever fought. This guy deserves to be here, this guys got all my respect."
With this bounce back win following his loss to Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 300, Oliveira is right back in the mix at 155-pounds.
All signs point towards Islam Makhachev defending his lightweight title against Tsarukyan early next year and the former king of the division is ready and waiting.
"Hey Dana, Hunter, whatever is next in line, I'll be there front row in January. Whoever it is, I'm the next one."
Watch the full interview below:
