On an electrifying Saturday night at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo solidified his position as a formidable contender in the bantamweight division. Figueiredo delivered a masterful performance, outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested match and improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0.
The Brazilian standout showcased his exceptional skills, narrowly edging out Vera with judges' scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo effectively neutralized Vera's offensive capabilities throughout the fight, particularly during the first two rounds. In Round 1, after absorbing a flying knee, Figueiredo responded by taking Vera down, setting the tone for the match.
A Riveting Third Round
However, the bout truly began to heat up in the third round. Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC coming into the fight, started strong with a barrage of body shots and sharp elbows. Yet, Figueiredo's experience and tactical acumen shone through as he dropped Vera with a well-timed counter right hand late in the round, effectively sealing his victory.
"Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," Figueiredo declared with evident determination post-fight, clearly setting his sights on higher stakes within the division.
Strategic Dominance
Figueiredo's performance was a masterclass in strategic fighting. Throughout the first half of the fight, he limited Vera's output, frustrating his opponent with a combination of body punches and adept circling. This strategic dominance was crucial in securing the win, as Vera, in desperate need of a victory following a recent slump, struggled to break through Figueiredo’s defenses.
For Vera, who previously lost to Sean O'Malley in March and has now lost three of his last four fights, this defeat marks his second consecutive setback. Despite a strong effort and moments of promise, Vera was unable to overcome the tactical prowess and resilience of Figueiredo.
Climbing the Ranks
Coming into the fight ranked No. 6, Figueiredo's victory over Vera propels him further up the bantamweight ranks. His transition from flyweight to bantamweight has been nothing short of seamless. Earlier in 2023, Figueiredo concluded a high-profile rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight, and his immediate success in the bantamweight division underscores his versatility and skill across weight classes.
Under the guidance of trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo continues to refine his fighting technique and strategy, achieving significant victories over notable opponents such as Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt. The win against Vera not only enhances his record but also cements his status as a top contender in the bantamweight division.
As the UFC landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Figueiredo as he seeks to ascend to the pinnacle of the bantamweight division. With unwavering focus and a track record of spectacular performances, he's undoubtedly an athlete to watch in upcoming events. Dana White and the UFC brass will certainly take note of his call for a title shot, potentially setting the stage for an explosive matchup in the near future.
For now, Figueiredo basks in the glow of another hard-earned victory, while Vera faces the challenge of bouncing back from yet another defeat. The drama and excitement of UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Figueiredo's already illustrious career.