Deiveson Figueiredo Triumphs Over Marlon Vera in Bantamweight Clash
Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has made another emphatic statement in his budding bantamweight career. On Saturday night at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo secured an impressive victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera, earning a unanimous decision with judges' scores of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27.
With this win, Figueiredo has improved his bantamweight record to a spotless 3-0. Known for his pinpoint striking and strategic takedowns, he once again showcased his versatile arsenal against a tough opponent. Guided by trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo executed a game plan that systematically dismantled Vera's attacks over the course of the fight.
The bout saw Figueiredo face early adversity, as he absorbed a flying knee from Vera in the first round. However, demonstrating his resilience and exceptional fight IQ, Figueiredo took Vera down immediately after the strike, limiting Vera's output and controlling the fight's pace. In the second round, Figueiredo's body punches and effective circling left Vera visibly frustrated, setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
Vera, who came into the fight ranked No. 4 by the UFC, was looking to rebound from a recent slump having lost three of his last four fights, including a defeat to Sean O'Malley in March. Despite starting the third round strong with body shots and sharp elbows, Vera was ultimately dropped by a counter right hand from Figueiredo late in the round, sealing his fate.
This loss is a significant setback for Vera, marking his second consecutive defeat and further complicating his standing within the bantamweight division.
In stark contrast, Figueiredo's victory enhances his credentials as a serious contender in the bantamweight ranks. Prior to this fight, he was ranked No. 6, but the win over a higher-ranked and formidable opponent like Vera is bound to catapult him further up the ladder.
Figueiredo’s transition from the flyweight division, where he concluded a bitter rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023, has been nothing short of exceptional. With his record now boasting victories over notable names such as Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt, his move to bantamweight appears to have injected new vigor and purpose into his career.
Moments after his victory, Figueiredo made his ambitions crystal clear. "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. This assertive call-out reveals his sights are set firmly on a title shot, hoping to challenge bantamweight luminaries such as Merab Dvalishvili and the reigning champion, Sean O'Malley.
The win not only solidifies Figueiredo’s status as a top-tier fighter in the bantamweight division but also potentially sets the stage for high-stakes matchups that could define the next chapter of his illustrious career. As the fighter continues to build on his bantamweight success, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how far he can go in his quest for a title.