Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo is quickly making a name for himself in the bantamweight division. On Saturday night at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo showcased his evolving skills by outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera in a closely contested bout. The judges scored the fight 29-28 (twice) and 30-27, all in favor of Figueiredo, who improved his bantamweight record to an impeccable 3-0.
A Strategic Battle
In the early stages of the fight, Figueiredo’s strategy was evident. He employed his trademark pinpoint striking along with well-timed takedowns to keep the high-ranked Vera at bay. After absorbing a damaging flying knee in the first round, Figueiredo responded with a tactical takedown, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Round two saw Figueiredo frustrate Vera with body punches and consistent circling, effectively limiting Vera’s output and dictating the pace of the fight. Though Vera had a strong start in Round three with body shots and sharp elbows, Figueiredo solidified his control by dropping Vera with a counter right hand late in the round.
Coaching and Preparation
Figueiredo's success can be attributed, in part, to the guidance of his trainer Eric Albarracin. Under Albarracin's tutelage, Figueiredo has refined his striking precision and strategic approach, making him a formidable competitor in his new weight class.
Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC coming into the fight, was in desperate need of a win after a recent slump. The loss marks his second consecutive defeat and his third in the last four fights, having previously lost to Sean O'Malley in March. Vera's aggressive start in the final round indicated his urgency, but Figueiredo’s counter striking proved too much for him.
Climbing the Ranks
Before the bout, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6 in the bantamweight division. His victory over Vera will undoubtedly elevate his standing further. Figueiredo has previously secured victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, showcasing his ability to compete with the best in the division.
"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 in his post-fight speech. His call-out to UFC President Dana White signals his ambition and confidence in taking on the division’s elite, including Merab Dvalishvili and current champion Sean O'Malley.
The Road Ahead
Figueiredo's transition from flyweight, where he concluded a rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier this year, to bantamweight has been marked by immediate success. His ability to adapt and excel in a higher weight class demonstrates his versatility and skill as a mixed martial artist.
For Vera, the loss is a critical setback. Once viewed as a top contender, his recent run of defeats puts him in a difficult position within the highly competitive bantamweight division. The road to redemption will be challenging, and his next fight will be crucial in determining his future trajectory.
As Figueiredo continues to build his legacy in the bantamweight division, his fans and critics alike will be watching closely. With another win under his belt, the former flyweight champion proves he is a force to be reckoned with, no matter the division.