In a unique crossover event five years in the making, former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira returns to Yonkers Raceway this May for a highly anticipated rematch against U.S. Hall of Famer driver Tim Tetrick.

Five years after surprising the harness racing world with an exhibition victory over Tetrick, Oliveira returns to the historic half-mile track for another friendly, but competitive showdown. This time, the event will be held as a team challenge, with Dan Dube, Yannick Gingras, and Pat Lachance joining Oliveira to compete as a team against Tetrick, Jordan Stratton, Lauren Tritton, and Jason Bartlett. 

Prior to the race, Oliveira will host a meet-and-greet for fans at 5:15 p.m. trackside, offering a rare opportunity for both MMA and racing enthusiasts to connect with one of the sport’s most exciting figures.

The team challenge exhibition is scheduled for Friday, May 8, at 8:15 p.m. Oliveira will look to remain undefeated at Yonkers Raceway while displaying his talent outside the octagon. Widely regarded as one of the most dynamic fighters, Oliveira holds the records for most submission wins and most finishes in UFC history.

Tetrick is one of the most celebrated drivers in North American harness racing, with more than 14,000 career wins. Inducted into the U.S. Harness Racing Hall of Fame in 2021, Tetrick set the North American record for wins in a single season in 2007 with 1,189 and has won nearly every major stakes race on the continent.

“It’s not every day you get to compete against one of the best MMA fighters in history," said Tetrick. "I have been looking forward to this rematch for years, and it’s a special opportunity to be part of something unique for our sport and our fans.”

Since Oliveira's last appearance, Yonkers Raceway has undergone more than $1 million in upgrades, including resurfacing the track, enhancing paddock facilities, state-of-the-art LED lighting, and a multi-display LED infield tote board designed to elevate the fan experience.

The Tetrick-Oliveira Team Challenge is part of a full evening of racing, highlighted by the MGM Borgata Pacing Series final and the Ursula McIntyre Series final later that night. The Empire Terrace will be open to guests from 5 to 10 p.m., with a buffet available for $55.

“We’re excited to welcome Charles back to showcase the enhancements we’ve made to the racing experience,” said Joe Frasure, race secretary at Yonkers Raceway at Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts. "This event reflects our commitment to delivering a world class competition and memorable fan experiences."

(with files from Yonkers)