Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has marked his presence significantly in the bantamweight division. On Saturday at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, the skilled fighter improved his bantamweight record to a flawless 3-0. Showcasing his prowess, Figueiredo edged past Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested bout.
Figueiredo's Strategic Victory
The judges' scores, reading 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27, highlighted the competitive nature of the match, yet clearly favored Figueiredo. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo lived up to his reputation under the guidance of his esteemed trainer, Eric Albarracin.
The fight saw Vera, who entered the octagon ranked No. 4 by the UFC, eager to rebound after a recent slump. Despite his high ranking, Vera faced a fighter ready to limit his output. In the first round, after absorbing a flying knee from Vera, Figueiredo countered effectively, taking him down and setting the tone for the remainder of the fight.
Round-by-Round Breakdown
As the fight progressed, Figueiredo continued to use his strategic striking and movement to frustrate Vera. In Round 2, body punches and circling tactics further stifled Vera’s attempts to gain momentum. Vera did start strong in Round 3, throwing effective body shots and sharp elbows, which briefly placed him in a favorable position. However, Figueiredo turned the tide with a decisive counter right hand that dropped Vera late in the final round, leaving an indelible mark on the judges’ scorecards.
Elevating Ranks and Future Aspirations
This victory is not just another win for Figueiredo but a significant leap in his career within the bantamweight ranks. Prior to this fight, he held the No. 6 spot but undoubtedly, this win will elevate his standing. His immediate success in the division is a testament to his adaptability and skill. Figueiredo’s win against Vera adds to his impressive collection of victories over notable fighters such as Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt.
For Vera, the loss is his second consecutive defeat, bringing his record to three losses in his last four fights. His previous bout ended in a loss to Sean O'Malley in March, underscoring the challenges he has faced recently. The fight against Figueiredo was seen as an opportunity for Vera to regain his footing, but the results evidently signal the need for a reassessment of his strategy moving forward.
Figueiredo's Call for a Title Shot
With evident determination, Figueiredo made his ambitions clear post-fight, directly addressing UFC President Dana White. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," he declared. His statement reflects his confidence and readiness to challenge for the championship, aiming to secure his place at the pinnacle of the bantamweight division.
Conclusion of a Rivalry and New Beginnings
Earlier in 2023, Figueiredo concluded his rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight, making a successful transition to bantamweight since then. His impressive performances in the new division showcase his evolution as a fighter and his capacity to compete at the highest level across different weight classes.
Figueiredo's journey in the bantamweight division is not just about maintaining an undefeated record; it's about his relentless pursuit of excellence and a title shot. His latest win against a formidable opponent like Vera illustrates his growing dominance and places him closer to a potential championship fight, a goal he seems more than equipped to achieve.