On a high-stakes Saturday in Abu Dhabi, Deiveson Figueiredo further solidified his place among the UFC's bantamweight elite with a compelling victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night. Figueiredo, a former flyweight champion, showcased his striking precision and tactical acumen to improve his bantamweight record to an impeccable 3-0.
The five-round contest was a mirror of intensity and skill, as Figueiredo and Vera clashed in a closely contested battle. Ultimately, the judges' scorecards reflected Figueiredo's edge, scoring the bout 29-28 twice, and a more decisive 30-27. It was a decision that underscored Figueiredo's command over the match, even in its tensest moments.
The Strategic Battle
In the early rounds, Figueiredo effectively curtailed Vera's output, utilizing his trademark pinpoint striking and timely takedowns to accumulate points. The opening round saw Figueiredo absorb a flying knee from Vera but quickly respond with a takedown, setting the tone for the tactical warfare that ensued. When the fight transitioned to the second round, Figueiredo's strategy became even more evident. By employing body punches and adeptly circling the Octagon, he managed to frustrate and limit Vera's offensive attempts.
The third round began with Vera displaying vigorous intent through body shots and sharp elbows. However, just as momentum seemed to be tipping in Vera's favor, Figueiredo executed a pivotal counter right hand, dropping Vera late in the round. This maneuver not only secured the round for Figueiredo but underscored his capability to turn the tide with precision striking.
Guidance and Preparation
Integral to Figueiredo's success is the expertise of his trainer, Eric Albarracin. Albarracin's guidance was evident in Figueiredo's disciplined approach, balancing aggression with tactical defense, an equilibrium that has come to define his style in the bantamweight division.
The victory over Vera, who was ranked No. 4 by the UFC coming into the fight, signifies another significant milestone for Figueiredo. Before facing Vera, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6, but this win propels him further up the bantamweight ranks, reinforcing his campaign for a title shot.
Challenges for Vera
For Marlon Vera, the match was a missed opportunity to reverse his current slump. Ranked No. 4 and having lost three of his last four fights, including a previous defeat to Sean O'Malley in March, Vera needed a victory to realign his career trajectory. Unfortunately for Vera, Figueiredo's meticulous game plan and execution proved insurmountable, resulting in Vera's second consecutive defeat.
Figueiredo's Rise
Deiveson Figueiredo's journey through the bantamweight division has been impressive. With victories against prominent fighters like Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt already under his belt, his transition from flyweight - where he concluded a high-profile rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023 - to bantamweight has been seamless. His immediate success in his new division is a testament to his adaptability and prowess inside the Octagon.
Following his victory, Figueiredo did not hesitate to call out the current titleholders. "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 with evident determination. It was a bold statement, fitting for a fighter who has rapidly ascended within the bantamweight rankings.
The win against Vera cements Figueiredo's position as a serious title contender, with his tactical proficiency and striking ability making him a formidable opponent for any fighter in the division. As he continues to climb the ranks, the bantamweight division will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the former flyweight champion who is making waves in his new category.