Figueiredo Sets Sights on Bantamweight Title After Victory Over Vera
Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has continued his impressive transition to the bantamweight division, securing a pivotal win over Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. The victory propels Figueiredo's bantamweight record to an impeccable 3-0, asserting his dominance and ambition within the division.
In what was a closely contested match, Figueiredo outpointed the highly ranked Vera, with judges scoring the bout 29-28 twice and 30-27 in favor of the Brazilian fighter. Known for his pinpoint striking and well-timed takedowns, Figueiredo demonstrated his versatile skill set and strategic acumen throughout the fight.
Guided by his experienced trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo entered the octagon determined to build on his previous successes in the bantamweight class. The fight began with Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC, showcasing his striking arsenal with body shots and sharp elbows, particularly in Round 3. However, Figueiredo effectively neutralized Vera’s offense with a series of strategic countermeasures, highlighting his defensive prowess.
One of the match's critical moments came in the third round when Figueiredo dropped Vera with a counter right hand. This decisive blow underscored Figueiredo’s ability to capitalize on openings and control the momentum of the fight.
From the start, Figueiredo set the tone by limiting Vera's output over the first half of the bout. After absorbing a flying knee in Round 1, Figueiredo exhibited his grappling skills, taking Vera down and establishing dominance on the mat. In Round 2, the Brazilian expertly used body punches and circled the cage to frustrate his opponent further, showcasing his tactical endurance and resilience.
Figueiredo’s victory over Vera isn’t his first notable win in the bantamweight division. He previously defeated Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, and his triumph over Vera, who had lost three of his last four fights, elevates him further in the division’s ranks. Before this fight, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6, but this win will undoubtedly position him closer to a title shot.
Marlon Vera came into the fight needing a victory to break a recent slump, having lost to Sean O'Malley in March and facing another defeat here. His performance, while spirited and aggressive, was ultimately insufficient against Figueiredo’s well-rounded attack.
Figueiredo’s seamless transition from flyweight to bantamweight has been marked by immediate success. Earlier in 2023, he concluded a storied rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight, and his achievements in the higher weight class have cemented his reputation as a versatile and formidable competitor in mixed martial arts.
In his post-fight remarks, an emphatic Figueiredo made his intentions 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 with evident determination.
As the bantamweight division continues to evolve, Figueiredo’s impressive performance against Vera signals his readiness to challenge the top contenders and potentially secure a title shot. His combination of striking, takedowns, and tactical intelligence makes him a dangerous opponent for any fighter in the division.
The MMA community will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Figueiredo's next moves, anticipating whether his call-out for a title opportunity will come to fruition. For now, his victory at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to his skill, preparation, and unyielding pursuit of greatness in another weight class.