Deiveson Figueiredo Moves Up in Bantamweight Ranks with Victory Over Marlon Vera
In a thrilling display of determination and skill, former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo continued his upward trajectory in the bantamweight division with an emphatic win over Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Figueiredo, who has now improved his bantamweight record to 3-0, demonstrated why he is a force to be reckoned with in this weight class.
A Hard-Fought Battle
The bout against Marlon Vera was fiercely contested from the opening bell. Vera, ranked No. 4 by the UFC heading into the fight, needed a win to break out of a recent slump, having lost three of his last four fights. For Figueiredo, the stakes were just as high; he was ranked No. 6 and a victory would propel him further up the bantamweight ladder.
Both fighters had their moments, but Figueiredo's pinpoint striking and timely takedowns set the tone early on. After absorbing a flying knee from Vera in Round 1, Figueiredo responded with a takedown, effectively neutralizing Vera’s aggression. Over the first half of the fight, Figueiredo managed to limit Vera's output, frustrating him with effective body punches and strategic circling in Round 2.
Key Moments in Round 3
Round 3 saw Vera coming out strong with body shots and sharp elbows. However, Figueiredo's poise and strategy shone through once again. Late in the round, he dropped Vera with a perfectly timed counter right hand, reinforcing his dominance. The judges' scores reflected the closely fought nature of the bout, with two scores of 29-28 and one of 30-27 in favor of Figueiredo.
Guided by Expertise
Much of Figueiredo's success can be attributed to the guidance of his trainer, Eric Albarracin. Known for his game plans and ability to bring out the best in his fighters, Albarracin has been an integral part of Figueiredo’s seamless transition from flyweight to bantamweight.
This victory against Vera adds to Figueiredo's impressive resume in the bantamweight division, which already includes wins over formidable opponents like Rob Font and Cody Garbrandt. His immediate success in the division speaks volumes about his adaptability and fighter acumen.
Vera's Struggles Continue
For Marlon Vera, the loss is particularly tough as it marks his second consecutive defeat, this time in front of fans and potential title contenders. Vera had previously lost to Sean O'Malley in March and this latest setback places his career at a crossroads, making his next fight a must-win to remain relevant in the division.
Vera started the fight with a strong verdict, showcasing his innate ability to go toe-to-toe with elite fighters. However, as the match progressed, Figueiredo’s tactical prowess started dictating the pace and trajectory of the bout, ultimately leading to Vera's downfall.
Eyes on the Title
Figueiredo’s post-fight comments left no doubt about his ambitions in the bantamweight division. “Hey Dana, I beat this guy tonight. Merab-O'Malley, I want to be next. I want to fight for the title next,” declared Figueiredo with evident determination. His message to UFC President Dana White was clear—he is ready for a title shot and believes he has proven himself deserving of that opportunity.
Looking Ahead
As Figueiredo continues his journey in the bantamweight division, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation about where his path will lead next. With three decisive victories in a row, he has undoubtedly established himself as a serious contender for the title. His blend of striking precision, strategic takedowns, and unwavering resolve makes him a formidable opponent for anyone in the bantamweight ranks.
The dynamic between Figueiredo's strategic acumen and Vera’s spirited resilience made for an electrifying match, one that not only showcased their skills but also set the stage for future high-stakes encounters in the division. As the bantamweight landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Figueiredo as he moves ever closer to his ultimate goal—a shot at the championship.