Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continues his ascension in the bantamweight division, coming off a significant victory at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Demonstrating his prowess, he improved his bantamweight record to an impeccable 3-0 by outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera in what was a closely contested match.
Closely Contested Battle
The judges’ scorecards reflected Figueiredo's effectiveness and control throughout the fight, with scores of 29-28 from two judges and 30-27 from the third, all in favor of the Brazilian contender. Known for his pinpoint striking and strategic takedowns, Figueiredo showcased these skills to nullify Vera’s efforts during the bout.
In the third round, Vera made a strong impression with powerful body shots and sharp elbows, but it was Figueiredo who seized the moment. A well-timed counter right hand from Figueiredo dropped Vera late in the final round, further cementing his control of the match.
Figueiredo’s Strategy and Execution
Guided by his trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo executed a game plan that limited Vera’s output in the first half of the fight. After absorbing a flying knee in the initial round, Figueiredo quickly responded by taking Vera down, showcasing his resilience and tactical acumen. In the second round, Figueiredo frustrated Vera with effective body punches and constant circling that kept his opponent at bay.
Implications for Rankings
Ranked No. 6 before the fight, Figueiredo’s victory over the No. 4 ranked Vera is expected to elevate him further in the bantamweight rankings. This win adds to his list of impressive victories in the division, which includes notable names like Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt. His success in this new weight class is noteworthy as he transitioned from the flyweight division, where he concluded a rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier this year.
Figueiredo’s candidacy for a title shot becomes ever more compelling with each victory. Displaying determination and ambition, Figueiredo called out the UFC President after his win saying, "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next." This declaration sends a clear message of his intentions in the bantamweight division.
Vera’s Struggles Continue
For Marlon Vera, the loss marks a difficult period in his career. This defeat is his second consecutive and he has now lost three of his last four fights. Coming into this bout with a high No. 4 rank, Vera was in dire need of a win to break out of his slump. His struggle was evident as Figueiredo successfully managed to limit his offensive output.
In March, Vera faced another challenging match against Sean O'Malley, which he also lost. The accumulation of these setbacks has put significant pressure on Vera to reassess and recalibrate his strategy moving forward.
Future Prospects
As Figueiredo continues to carve out his path in the bantamweight ranks, the division's landscape could see significant changes. With his recent performances, Figueiredo has quickly established himself as a formidable contender, keen on securing a title shot. If his rapid progression and skill set are any indicator, the bantamweight division will have to reckon with the rise of Deiveson Figueiredo.
Vera, on the other hand, faces a crucial juncture in his career. The depth of the bantamweight division offers little reprieve for those on a losing streak, and Vera will need to regroup swiftly to halt his downward momentum and reclaim his standing.