Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo showcased his growing dominance in the bantamweight division with an impressive performance at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Figueiredo, who has seamlessly transitioned to the bantamweight ranks, secured a critical victory against Marlon "Chito" Vera, further cementing his position as a top contender.
Figueiredo's Tactical Mastery
In what was a closer match than the final scorecards might suggest, Figueiredo outpointed Vera with the judges scoring the bout 29-28 (twice) and 30-27 in Figueiredo's favor. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo employed a masterful strategy to limit Vera’s offensive output throughout the fight's duration.
The bout opened with Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC, displaying aggressive intent. Despite absorbing a flying knee in Round 1, Figueiredo responded swiftly by taking Vera down, an early indication of his tactical prowess. Round 2 saw Figueiredo frustrating Vera with precise body punches and controlled movement, neutralizing the Ecuadorian's advances.
Key Moments in a Gripping Contest
As Round 3 commenced, Vera had a strong start, targeting Figueiredo's body with shots and sharp elbows. However, Figueiredo once again demonstrated his striking acumen, dropping Vera with a counter right hand late in the round, a significant moment that likely influenced the judges' final scores.
"Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," Figueiredo boldly declared after the fight, his determination unmistakable as he called for a title shot against either Merab Dvalishvili or Sean O'Malley.
A Steady Ascent
With this victory, Figueiredo improved his bantamweight record to 3-0, demonstrating immediate success after concluding his flyweight rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023. His wins in the bantamweight division, which also include victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, have rightfully elevated his status within the ranks. Coming into the fight, he was ranked No. 6, but this latest triumph against a top-five opponent will undoubtedly bolster his standing.
Vera's Struggles Continue
For Marlon Vera, this defeat marks his second consecutive loss and his third defeat in the last four fights. Vera, who needed a win to recover from his recent slump, appeared unable to effectively counter Figueiredo's strategy. His prior loss to Sean O'Malley in March had already put him in a precarious position, and this latest setback only deepens the challenge ahead for the 30-year-old fighter.
Guided by Expert Coaching
A crucial factor in Figueiredo's continued success lies in the guidance of his trainer, Eric Albarracin. Albarracin's tactical insights have evidently played a significant role in shaping Figueiredo's in-cage performances, enabling him to execute well-calibrated game plans that leverage his striking precision and grappling abilities effectively.
Figueiredo’s win in Abu Dhabi is a testament to his adaptability and skill across weight classes. As he calls for a title shot, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see if he can carry his momentum into a championship fight. With his current trajectory, Figueiredo is poised to make a significant impact in the bantamweight division, setting the stage for potentially thrilling matchups in the future.