Figueiredo Shines in Bantamweight Division with Decisive Win Over Vera
Deiveson Figueiredo, former UFC flyweight champion, showcased his evolving prowess in the bantamweight division with a convincing victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. The Brazilian fighter extended his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0, demonstrating an impeccable blend of striking accuracy and strategic maneuvering.
The bout, which culminated in a unanimous decision win for Figueiredo, was a closely contested affair. Judges scored the fight 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27 in favor of Figueiredo, who displayed a masterclass in counterpunching and takedown execution. Early in Round 1, Figueiredo absorbed a flying knee from Vera but responded with a decisive takedown, setting the tone for the rounds to follow.
Throughout the match, Figueiredo's trainer, Eric Albarracin, guided him strategically, emphasizing the importance of both offensive and defensive tactics. In Round 2, Figueiredo employed body punches and effective circling to disrupt Vera's rhythm, significantly limiting his output. By controlling the tempo and distance of the fight, Figueiredo was able to frustrate his opponent and dominate the first half of the bout.
Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC, entered the octagon with hopes of reversing his recent slump. However, despite a strong start with body shots and sharp elbows in the final round, he was unable to sustain his momentum. Late in Round 3, Figueiredo dropped Vera with a perfectly timed counter right hand, solidifying his control and sealing the victory.
Figueiredo's annihilation of Vera, who has now lost three of his last four fights, marks his second consecutive defeat, further complicating his standing in the bantamweight division. Vera had previously faced another tough loss against Sean O'Malley in March, making this latest defeat particularly significant.
The win against Vera propels Figueiredo higher in the bantamweight ranks, adding to his victories over respected contenders Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt. Entering the bout ranked No. 6, Figueiredo's success in the bantamweight division appears to be immediate and impactful. Having concluded a notable rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight earlier this year, Figueiredo's transition to bantamweight has thus far been met with resounding success.
Following his triumph in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo did not shy away from laying out his ambitions for the future. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," he declared, signaling his aspirations for a title shot and underscoring his determination to climb to the pinnacle of the division.
With his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo continues to impress both fans and analysts alike. Guided by the astute coaching of Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo's blend of aggression and strategy makes him a formidable contender in the bantamweight division. As he sets his sights on the top contenders and a potential title fight, the MMA world will undoubtedly be watching his next move.
In the ever-competitive landscape of the UFC, Figueiredo's performance in Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to his skill, resilience, and unyielding drive. As the bantamweight division heats up, one thing is clear: Deiveson Figueiredo is a name to be reckoned with.