Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continued his impressive ascent in the bantamweight division with a significant victory at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Facing Marlon "Chito" Vera, Figueiredo secured his third consecutive win in the division, enhancing his bantamweight record to an impeccable 3-0. The judges scored the closely contested battle 29-28 (twice) and 30-27 in favor of Figueiredo.
Meticulous Striking and Tactical Brilliance
Figueiredo's win was a testament to his precise striking and well-timed takedowns, which have become integral parts of his skill set. Under the guidance of trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo showcased the kind of performance that underscores why he remains a formidable competitor across weight classes.
The match started intensely, with Vera coming in strong during the third round, landing effective body shots and sharp elbows. However, Figueiredo's composure paid off significantly when he dropped Vera with a counter right hand late in the third round, solidifying his control over the fight.
Strategic Dominance
Before this pivotal moment, Figueiredo had effectively limited Vera’s output during the initial half of the fight. Even after absorbing a potent flying knee in the first round, Figueiredo managed a takedown that further frustrated Vera. Round two saw Figueiredo utilizing body punches and strategic circling to continuously unsettle his opponent, demonstrating his tactical brilliance.
Vera, who had entered the fight ranked No. 4 by the UFC, desperately needed a win to break his recent slump. Unfortunately for Vera, the loss marked his second consecutive defeat and his third in the last four fights, including a previous defeat to Sean O’Malley back in March. Figueiredo's triumph over Vera has undoubtedly elevated his status within the bantamweight ranks, especially given that Figueiredo was only ranked No. 6 before facing Vera.
Eyes on the Title
The win is another feather in the cap for Figueiredo, who has now claimed victories over notable names like Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt. His immediate success in the bantamweight division is notable, particularly after concluding a high-stakes rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023 at flyweight.
Figueiredo’s intentions were made clear in his post-fight declaration: "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," he announced with palpable determination.
As Figueiredo’s career trajectory continues its upward climb, his callout suggests he is eyeing a title shot next. This ambition, coupled with his superlative performances, places him in a compelling position within the bantamweight hierarchy. With each passing fight, Figueiredo has managed to solidify his reputation as an elite fighter capable of adapting and succeeding across multiple weight divisions.
For Marlon Vera, the path forward involves reassessment and strategy recalibration. Vera's recent track record has been challenging, and identifying areas of improvement will be crucial for his resurgence in the division. The loss also emphasizes the volatility and highly competitive nature of the bantamweight class, where fighters must continuously evolve to stay relevant.
As the UFC landscape evolves, the narratives surrounding fighters like Figueiredo and Vera will undoubtedly add layers of intrigue and anticipation for fans and analysts alike. Whether Figueiredo will get his wish for a title shot remains to be seen, but his current form and assertive statements leave little doubt about his future ambitions. The journey of a fighter is never devoid of hurdles, and for now, Deiveson Figueiredo seems more than prepared to clear them all.