Figueiredo Dominates Vera in Bantamweight Battle at UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi
Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has firmly established himself as a formidable contender in the bantamweight division. At UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, Figueiredo showcased his skill and determination, earning a hard-fought victory over Marlon "Chito" Vera and improving his bantamweight record to an impressive 3-0.
The closely contested match saw Figueiredo outpoint Vera, with the judges' scores reading 29-28 (twice) and 30-27 in favor of Figueiredo, underscoring his control and precision throughout the bout. Known for his pinpoint striking and timely takedowns, Figueiredo once again demonstrated his tactical prowess in the octagon.
Figueiredo, guided by the formidable trainer Eric Albarracin, had a clear game plan from the outset. His strategy effectively limited Vera's output over the first half of the fight, displaying his ability to adapt and counter his opponent's strengths. After absorbing a flying knee in the opening round, Figueiredo quickly took Vera down, setting the tone for the rest of the fight.
In the second round, Figueiredo continued to frustrate Vera with well-placed body punches and constant circling, preventing Vera from finding his rhythm. Round three saw Vera start strong with impactful body shots and sharp elbows, but Figueiredo weathered the storm and capitalized on an opening, dropping Vera with a counter right hand late in the round. This decisive moment solidified Figueiredo's edge in the judges' eyes.
Coming into the fight, Vera was ranked No. 4 by the UFC, while Figueiredo was positioned at No. 6. Vera, who had been in dire need of a win following a recent slump, now faced his second consecutive defeat, marking his third loss in his last four fights. This defeat follows his previous loss to Sean O'Malley in March, adding to his uphill battle in regaining form.
Figueiredo's victory not only boosts his standing in the bantamweight ranks but also reinforces his immediate success in the division. With notable victories over Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt already under his belt, Figueiredo's transition from flyweight has been marked by poise and efficiency. The win against Vera further elevates his position, making him a significant player in the title picture.
The former flyweight champion had concluded a high-profile rivalry with Brandon Moreno earlier in 2023, and his seamless move to bantamweight has since garnered attention. Capitalizing on his momentum, Figueiredo made a bold callout after the fight, addressing UFC President Dana White directly. "Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next," Figueiredo declared with evident determination.
As Figueiredo continues to climb the bantamweight ladder, his performances are a testament to his resilience and versatility as a fighter. Meanwhile, for Vera, the path to redemption grows steeper, as he seeks to break free from his recent string of setbacks.
The division remains highly competitive, and Figueiredo's ascent adds another layer of intrigue to the title race. With each bout, he strengthens his case for a title shot, and his fans eagerly anticipate his next steps inside the octagon.
Figueiredo's journey is a compelling narrative of adaptation and ambition, paving the way for future showdowns that promise to keep MMA enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.