Figueiredo Shines in Bantamweight Battle in Abu Dhabi
In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continued his ascent in the bantamweight division with a significant victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0, Figueiredo showcased why he is a formidable contender in this weight class.
Figueiredo’s victory over Vera, who came into the fight ranked No. 4 by the UFC, was a closely contested match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo once again demonstrated these attributes, outpointing Vera with judges' scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27.
The fight began with Vera delivering sharp body shots and elbows in Round 3, leaving many to believe Figueiredo might be in trouble. However, demonstrating his resilience and tactical prowess, Figueiredo responded swiftly, dropping Vera with a precise counter right hand late in the round. This pivotal moment tipped the scales in Figueiredo's favor.
Under the guidance of trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo has masterfully transitioned into the bantamweight division. His strategic game plan was evident throughout the match, as he limited Vera's output over the first half of the fight and frustrated him with body punches and constant circling in Round 2. This tactical approach, combined with his ability to absorb and counter attacks, made the difference in securing the win.
Figueiredo’s record now includes notable victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, further cementing his status as a genuine threat in the bantamweight ranks. His performance against Vera not only earned him another win but also elevated his ranking from No. 6, positioning him as a top contender for the title.
For Marlon Vera, the bout was a crucial one, following a recent slump. Unfortunately for Vera, this loss marks his second consecutive defeat and his third loss in his last four fights. Coming into the fight, Vera had hoped to reverse his fortunes after a tough loss to Sean O'Malley in March. Despite his strong start in Round 3, Vera could not maintain the momentum needed to secure a victory.
Reflecting on his victory, Figueiredo made his ambitions clear, "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 determination unmistakable. With this statement, he has set his sights firmly on the division’s top contenders and a possible title shot.
Figueiredo's achievements in the flyweight division, including concluding a highly publicized rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023, have paved the way for his success at bantamweight. His immediate impact in this new division indicates that he is not only a versatile fighter but also one capable of competing at the highest levels across different weight classes.
As Figueiredo continues to climb the ranks, the bantamweight division becomes ever more competitive. His blend of striking precision, tactical intelligence, and unwavering determination makes him a compelling figure to watch in the UFC. Whether he will achieve his ambition of fighting for the title remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Deiveson Figueiredo is a name that will continue to resonate in the world of mixed martial arts.