Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continues to showcase his versatility and skill as a burgeoning contender in the bantamweight division. On Saturday at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo bolstered his burgeoning bantamweight resume by outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested match, improving his record to an impressive 3-0 in the division.
Figueiredo's victory did not come easily against the highly ranked Vera, who entered the bout desperate for a win amidst a recent slump. Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC going into the fight, was looking to regain some momentum after a series of defeats, but Figueiredo's precise striking and strategic takedowns ultimately proved too much. The judges scored the bout 29-28 twice and 30-27, all in favor of Figueiredo. This outcome underscores the Brazilian’s remarkable adaptability since moving up in weight class.
A Close Encounter
Vera showed resilience and a potent offensive game, particularly in Round 3 when he started strong with a barrage of body shots and sharp elbows. However, as the round progressed, Figueiredo managed to counter effectively, landing a significant right hand that dropped Vera late in the round. This pivotal moment exemplified Figueiredo’s ability to capitalize on openings, even when the momentum seemed briefly to be in Vera’s favor.
Throughout the fight, Figueiredo managed to keep Vera's output in check, especially in the first half. In Round 1, after absorbing a flying knee, Figueiredo quickly took Vera down, establishing early dominance. In Round 2, he frustrated Vera with a combination of body punches and skillful circling, thereby preventing his opponent from finding a consistent rhythm.
Guided Expertise and Tactical Precision
Figueiredo’s success can be attributed in part to the guidance of his trainer, Eric Albarracin, whose strategic oversight has helped refine the fighter's innate talents. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo has cultivated a fighting style that blends aggression with calculated efficiency, a combination that continues to yield impressive results.
This victory not only elevates Figueiredo in the bantamweight rankings but also underscores his capacity to adapt and thrive across different weight divisions. His previous victories in the bantamweight division against notable contenders such as Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt further cement his status as a formidable force in the category.
Figueiredo’s Ambition
In the post-fight moments, Figueiredo made his ambitions clear, declaring his desire to go for the title. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," he stated with evident determination. This call-out underscores his confidence and readiness for the next significant step in his career trajectory.
Vera’s Challenges
For Marlon Vera, the loss marks his second consecutive defeat and a troubling pattern, as he has now lost three of his last four fights. Previously ranked among the top contenders, Vera’s recent performances, including a loss to Sean O'Malley in March, suggest a critical juncture in his career. Going into the fight against Figueiredo, Vera had the pressure to break out of his slump, but instead finds himself needing to regroup and reconsider his strategy moving forward.
The Path Forward
Figueiredo’s recent successes are all the more impressive considering he recently concluded a fierce rivalry with Brandon Moreno in the flyweight division earlier in 2023. His immediate impact and success in the bantamweight division highlight his adaptability and resilience as a fighter, setting the stage for what could be an eminent title run.
As Figueiredo continues to climb the ranks, the potential matchups against other top bantamweights become increasingly tantalizing for fans and analysts alike. With his mix of tactical acumen and raw skill, Deiveson Figueiredo is poised to be a leading figure in the UFC’s bantamweight division for the foreseeable future.