Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has successfully asserted himself as a force to be reckoned with in the bantamweight division. On Saturday at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo showcased his skills by improving his bantamweight record to 3-0, clinching a hard-fought decision victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera.
The bout was a closely contested affair, with Figueiredo outpointing Vera in a tactical, back-and-forth clash. The judges awarded the decision to Figueiredo with scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27, reflecting his effective strategy and execution throughout the fight.
Precision and Strategy
Figueiredo's victory was characterized by his well-known penchant for pinpoint striking and timely takedowns. Under the guidance of his trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo was able to develop a game plan that minimized Vera's usually high output and turned the fight in his favor.
In the opening round, after absorbing a flying knee from Vera, Figueiredo responded by taking him down, setting the tone for his tactical approach. Round 2 saw Figueiredo continue to frustrate Vera with body punches and smart circling, disrupting Vera's rhythm and limiting his offensive opportunities.
The third round highlighted Vera's resilience, as he came out with a strong showing, delivering effective body shots and sharp elbows. However, Figueiredo's ability to remain composed culminated in a significant moment when he floored Vera with a well-timed counter right hand late in the round.
Rankings and Rivalries
Heading into the fight, Vera was ranked No. 4 by the UFC, while Figueiredo held the No. 6 spot. The outcome of this bout not only improved Figueiredo's bantamweight record but also significantly elevated his standing within the division. Figueiredo has already amassed notable victories over top fighters such as Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, asserting his place among the elite contenders.
For Vera, the loss marked his second consecutive defeat and his third loss in his last four fights. This recent slump is notable, especially considering his earlier defeat to Sean O'Malley in March. Vera’s struggle to regain his footing amid tough competition adds a layer of complexity to his career trajectory.
Figueiredo's success in the bantamweight division follows his highly publicized rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight, which concluded earlier in 2023. His immediate success in his new weight class underlines his adaptability and prowess across different divisions of the sport.
A Champ’s Challenge
The post-fight atmosphere was electric, with Figueiredo exuding confidence and ambition. His sights are set firmly on championship glory, as he vocally expressed his desire for a title shot. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," Figueiredo declared with evident determination, making his case for what he believes should be his next career milestone.
In a sport where each fight can dramatically alter the landscape of a division, Figueiredo's assertive callout is both a statement of intent and a strategic move to position himself for a high-stakes opportunity. With his eyes on the bantamweight crown, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Figueiredo's trajectory continues its upward climb.
As the bantamweight division continues to heat up, Figueiredo's impressive run serves as a testament to his skill, adaptability, and competitive spirit. His journey through the ranks is a narrative that has captivated fans and highlights the ever-evolving dynamics within the UFC.