Deiveson Figueiredo Dominates Marlon Vera to Cement Position in Bantamweight Division
In a compelling display of technical prowess and strategic acumen, former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo showcased his dominance in the bantamweight division by outpointing Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. The judges' scores reflected the tightly contested nature of the fight, awarding Figueiredo a victory with tallies of 29-28 (twice) and 30-27.
Known for his pinpoint striking and well-timed takedowns, Figueiredo utilized his skill set to systematically limit Vera's output over the first half of the match. His strategic approach laid the foundation for his victory, improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0.
Initially facing a strong offensive from Vera in Round 3, characterized by effective body shots and sharp elbows, Figueiredo responded with a perfectly timed counter right hand that floored Vera late in the round. This pivotal moment underscored Figueiredo's ability to adapt and capitalize on fleeting opportunities.
Under the guidance of trainer Eric Albarracin, Figueiredo laid out a masterclass in tactical mixed martial arts. His adaptability was highlighted when he absorbed a flying knee from Vera in Round 1, only to execute a takedown that momentarily shifted the bout's momentum. In Round 2, Figueiredo further frustrated Vera with a combination of precise body punches and constant circling, preventing Vera from establishing any significant rhythm.
The victory is not just a testament to Figueiredo's skill but also his resilience and strategic mindset. Prior to the fight, Figueiredo was ranked No. 6 in the bantamweight division, while Vera was positioned at No. 4. The win against a contender like Vera is a clear indicator of Figueiredo's upward trajectory in the division.
For Vera, the bout represented a critical juncture in his career. Entering the fight after a series of mixed results, a victory over Figueiredo could have been a crucial step in redeeming his standing within the UFC. Unfortunately, the loss marks Vera's second consecutive defeat, and he has now dropped three of his last four fights, including a previous loss to Sean O'Malley in March. Vera's recent performance downturn starkly contrasts with his reputation as a formidable striker and dynamic competitor.
Conversely, Figueiredo's swift ascension in the bantamweight ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. Having concluded a storied rivalry with Brandon Moreno at flyweight earlier in 2023, Figueiredo transitioned to bantamweight with immediate success, adding to his victories over notable opponents like Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt.
After the fight, an unwavering Figueiredo confidently called out for a title shot, boldly stating, "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 not only signals his championship aspirations but also sets the stage for potentially electrifying matchups in the near future.
As the bantamweight division continues to evolve, Figueiredo's performances suggest he is poised to become a formidable force. With his combination of strategic brilliance and tactical precision, backed by the guidance of his experienced trainer, the future looks promising for this former flyweight champion who is swiftly making his mark in a new weight class.