Deiveson Figueiredo Continues Bantamweight Ascent with Victory Over Marlon Vera
Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo's transition to the bantamweight division continues to be a resounding success. On Saturday night at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo secured a pivotal win, improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0.
In a closely contested match, Figueiredo managed to outpoint Marlon "Chito" Vera, earning the judges' favor with scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27. His victory not only further cements his position in the bantamweight rankings but also showcases his growing dominance in the division.
Strategic Brilliance in the Octagon
Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo showcased his strategic brilliance throughout the fight. Under the guidance of his trainer, Eric Albarracin, he effectively limited Vera's output during the first half of the bout. His tactical approach, including absorbing a flying knee in Round 1 and taking Vera down, frustrated his opponent and disrupted Vera's rhythm.
In Round 2, Figueiredo's use of body punches and consistent circling further compounded Vera's frustrations. Despite a strong start from Vera in Round 3, which included body shots and sharp elbows, it was Figueiredo's counter right hand that ultimately turned the tide. This decisive move late in the round dropped Vera and secured Figueiredo's victory.
Climbing the Bantamweight Ladder
Figueiredo's journey to the bantamweight division has certainly been noteworthy. Previously ranked No. 6, his victory over the No. 4 ranked Vera signifies a significant advancement in his position within the division. This win, coupled with his past victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, underscores his immediate success at bantamweight.
The Brazilian fighter's rise in this new weight class is starkly contrasted by Vera's current struggles. Coming into the fight, Vera was in desperate need of a win after experiencing a recent slump. Saturday's loss marks his second consecutive defeat and the third in his last four bouts. Previously, he sustained a loss to Sean O'Malley in March, which has only added to his recent woes.
Figueiredo's Future Ambitions
Figueiredo's ambitions within the bantamweight division are clear. Following his win over Vera, Figueiredo vocalized his desire for a title shot. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," declared Figueiredo with evident determination.
His call to action serves as a bold statement of intent and reflects his confidence in taking on the top contenders within the division. For a fighter who recently concluded a high-profile rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight earlier in 2023, Figueiredo's rapid adaptation and immediate success at bantamweight is a testament to his versatility and resilience.
Conclusion
As Figueiredo continues to climb the ranks of the bantamweight division, his performances are a reminder of his elite skills and tenacity. With eyes set on the title, his journey forward promises to be thrilling, filled with high-stakes encounters and an unwavering quest for dominance in a new weight class.