Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continues to solidify his presence in the bantamweight division, showcasing his refined skill set and relentless determination at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi.
Figueiredo, who has rapidly emerged as a formidable contender in his new weight class, improved his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0 with a hard-fought victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera. In what was a closely contested battle, Figueiredo managed to outpoint Vera, earning a unanimous decision with judges' scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27.
A Tactical Masterclass
Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo demonstrated these attributes to great effect against Vera. The fight saw Figueiredo employ a strategic approach, limiting Vera's offensive output in the early rounds with his defensive prowess and well-timed counters. After absorbing a flying knee in the first round, Figueiredo showcased his grappling skills by taking Vera down, setting the tone for the remainder of the fight.
Round two featured Figueiredo frustrating Vera with effective body punches and consistent circling, preventing Vera from finding his rhythm. Throughout the bout, Figueiredo's ability to adapt and respond to Vera's aggression was evident, culminating in a pivotal moment in the final round. Despite Vera's strong start in the third round with sharp elbows and body shots, Figueiredo delivered a decisive counter right hand that dropped Vera, solidifying his control over the match.
Climbing the Ranks
Before this fight, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6 in the bantamweight division, while Vera held the No. 4 slot. The victory marks a significant milestone for Figueiredo, elevating him further in the bantamweight ranks and underscoring his seamless transition from flyweight. This win adds to his growing list of accomplishments in this weight class, which already includes notable victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt.
Guided by trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo continues to refine his approach, demonstrating consistent improvement and versatility in his technique. His performance against Vera, a top-ranked contender, is a testament to his well-rounded capabilities and strategic acumen inside the octagon.
Vera's Struggles Continue
For Marlon Vera, the loss is a setback in his quest to regain his footing in the division. Coming into the fight on the back of a recent slump, Vera was in dire need of a win to halt his downward trajectory. Unfortunately, this defeat marks his second consecutive loss and his third in his last four fights. Prior to this fight, Vera faced Sean O'Malley in March, where he also fell short, further compounding the challenges in his recent career.
Calls for a Title Shot
In the aftermath of his victory, Deiveson Figueiredo did not shy away from aiming for the pinnacle of the bantamweight division. With evident determination, he declared, "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next." This bold statement indicates Figueiredo's readiness to challenge the top names in the division as he eyes the ultimate prize – the bantamweight championship.
Having concluded his rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight earlier in 2023, Figueiredo's swift success in the bantamweight category highlights his adaptability and competitive spirit. As he continues to ascend the ranks, all eyes will undoubtedly be on his next move, and whether he will get the title shot he so firmly believes he deserves.
Saturday night's performance in Abu Dhabi reinforces Deiveson Figueiredo's status as a top contender in the bantamweight division, exemplifying his technical skill and unwavering resolve to reach the summit of the sport. As he squares off against increasingly elite competition, his journey in this new chapter of his career promises to be as thrilling and dynamic as his accomplishments at flyweight.