Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has firmly positioned himself as a formidable contender in the bantamweight division. His latest victory at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi further cements his rising trajectory, as he improved his record to 3-0 in the division by outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested match.
Figueiredo vs. Vera: A Tactical Battle
The bout, characterized by strategic exchanges and precise techniques, saw Figueiredo edge out Vera with judges' scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo effectively neutralized Vera’s offensive attempts throughout the fight. Despite a strong start from Vera in Round 3, featuring body shots and sharp elbows, it was Figueiredo’s counter right hand late in the round that secured his dominance.
Vera's Struggles Continue
Ranked No. 4 by the UFC coming into the fight, Vera was in dire need of a win after a recent slump. Having lost three of his last four fights, including a defeat to Sean O'Malley in March, another loss was a significant setback. Figueiredo's tactics of limiting Vera's output in the early rounds proved effective. In Round 1, after taking a flying knee, Figueiredo took Vera down, setting the tone for the rest of the fight.
Strategic Mastery
Figueiredo's strategy in Round 2 was particularly noteworthy. Using body punches and circling, he managed to frustrate Vera and maintain control. His ability to adapt and implement a game plan under the guidance of trainer Eric Albarracin was on full display. The victory over Vera not only enhances Figueiredo's standing but also showcases his immediate success in the bantamweight division after concluding a rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight earlier this year.
Call for Title Shot
In the post-fight interview, Figueiredo made his ambitions clear, 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 with evident determination. This win, coupled with his previous victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, bolsters Figueiredo’s claim for a title shot in the bantamweight division.
Vera's Future Uncertain
For Vera, the loss marks his second consecutive defeat, adding to the challenges he faces in climbing back up the ranks. His recent performances have been inconsistent, and this latest setback against Figueiredo complicates his path forward. The urgency to restore his career momentum will undoubtedly be a priority for Vera and his team.
As Figueiredo continues to ascend in the bantamweight rankings, his blend of striking accuracy and takedown proficiency makes him a potent threat to the division’s top fighters. Under Albarracin's tutelage, he has managed to transition smoothly between weight classes, a testament to his versatility and skill.
The bantamweight division will be keenly watching Figueiredo’s next move, as his sights are set on the title. Whether his call-out will materialize into a title fight remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Deiveson Figueiredo is a name to watch in the UFC’s bantamweight landscape.