Deiveson Figueiredo Shines in Bantamweight Division with Victory over Marlon Vera
In a thrilling contest at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continued to make waves in the bantamweight division. Improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0, Figueiredo showcased his exceptional skills by outpointing the formidable Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested match.
The judges scored the bout 29-28 twice and 30-27 in favor of Figueiredo, who demonstrated his signature pinpoint striking and timely takedowns throughout the encounter. Guided by his trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo's performance was a testament to his adaptability and prowess inside the Octagon.
Vera, who entered the fight ranked No. 4 by the UFC, started strong in Round 3 with powerful body shots and sharp elbows. However, Figueiredo's resilience and strategy shone through as he dropped Vera with a precise counter right hand late in the final round. This pivotal moment underscored Figueiredo's tactical acumen and ability to seize critical opportunities under pressure.
From the outset, Figueiredo adeptly limited Vera's output over the first half of the fight. After absorbing a flying knee in Round 1, he swiftly countered by taking Vera to the ground. In Round 2, Figueiredo employed body punches and strategic circling to frustrate his opponent, further establishing control of the fight.
Figueiredo's victory over Vera, who was seeking to rebound after a recent slump, marked his third win in the bantamweight division. Entering the bout ranked No. 6, Figueiredo's triumph elevates his standing in the competitive bantamweight ranks. Notably, he has also secured victories over notable opponents Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, bolstering his credentials as a top contender in the division.
For Vera, the loss signifies his second consecutive defeat and his third in his last four fights. Having previously lost to Sean O'Malley in March, Vera was in dire need of a win to revitalize his career. Despite his efforts, Figueiredo's tactical execution proved too formidable, leaving Vera to reassess his path forward in the sport.
Figueiredo's successful transition from flyweight to bantamweight has been marked by immediate success. Earlier in 2023, he concluded his rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight, turning his focus to new challenges in the bantamweight division. His seamless adaptation and continued excellence signal his intent to become a force to be reckoned with at 135 pounds.
In the aftermath of his victory, Figueiredo did not shy away from expressing his ambitions. With evident determination, he issued a challenge to UFC President Dana White: "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next." Figueiredo's assertive callout underscores his confidence and hunger for championship gold in his new division.
As Figueiredo continues to ascend the bantamweight ranks, the UFC world watches with keen interest. His blend of precise striking, strategic grappling, and unwavering determination make him a formidable contender for the bantamweight title. The journey ahead promises to be captivating, with Figueiredo poised for more high-stakes battles and potentially a shot at the coveted championship.