Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has cemented his status as a serious contender in the bantamweight division, following an impressive performance at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Figueiredo improved his bantamweight record to a flawless 3-0 with a win over Marlon "Chito" Vera, a bout that showcased his precision striking and timely takedowns.
The showdown was a closely contested affair, but Figueiredo ultimately outpointed Vera, earning the judges' favor with scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27. This fight further underscored Figueiredo's ability to adapt and excel in a higher weight class after concluding his rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier this year at flyweight.
A Strategic Masterclass
Figueiredo's game plan was evident from the onset. In the first round, after absorbing a flying knee from Vera, he retaliated by taking his opponent down, setting the tone for the rest of the match. Known for his pinpoint striking, Figueiredo landed a series of body punches and utilized effective circling techniques in Round 2 to frustrate Vera and limit his offensive output.
Round 3 saw Vera come out strong, delivering sharp elbows and vicious body shots. However, Figueiredo remained composed, and it was a late counter right hand that dropped Vera, securing the victory for the former flyweight champion. The strategic brilliance on display highlighted Figueiredo's versatility and ability to manage fights against top-ranked opponents.
Rising Through the Ranks
Before the fight, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6 in the UFC bantamweight division, while Vera came in at No. 4. Figueiredo's victory not only adds another significant win to his resume but also elevates him further up the bantamweight ranks. With previous victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, Figueiredo's immediate success in the division is undeniable.
It's clear that Figueiredo has eyes set on the top. In a post-fight declaration filled with determination, Figueiredo called out UFC President Dana White, saying, "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next." With such a bold challenge, Figueiredo has positioned himself as a formidable candidate for a title shot.
Vera's Struggles Continue
For Marlon Vera, the loss is a significant setback. This defeat marks his second consecutive loss and his third in the last four fights. Earlier this year, Vera also faced defeat against Sean O'Malley in March. Vera's high ranking and desperate need for a win translated into a spirited effort against Figueiredo, but it was not enough to alter his current slump.
Despite his impressive performance in the third round, where he started strongly with body shots and sharp elbows, Vera could not maintain the momentum. The loss underscores the competitive nature of the bantamweight division and the challenges that come with maintaining a top-ranked position.
Guided by Experience
Figueiredo's rise through the bantamweight division is also a testament to his training under Eric Albarracin. Figueiredo’s ability to seamlessly transition between weight classes and secure victories is a nod to his dedicated preparation and strategic approach to each fight. His tactical prowess and physical conditioning reflect the guidance and expertise of Albarracin, who has been instrumental in shaping Figueiredo’s career.
As Figueiredo continues to make waves in the bantamweight division, the prospect of a title fight seems increasingly plausible. With his recent performances cementing his place as a top contender, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how far he can go. For now, Figueiredo can savor another well-earned victory and look ahead to future challenges in the octagon.