Deiveson Figueiredo Eyes UFC Bantamweight Title fight

02 January 2024

Former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo is setting his sights on the summit of his new division following a triumphant debut earlier this month. Figueiredo secured a unanimous decision victory over the ranked Rob Font, showcasing his readiness for the challenges in the bantamweight class. Although he has his eyes on champion Sean O'Malley, the Brazilian emphasizes that he will patiently await the UFC's decision on his next opponent.

In an interview on the MMA Hour, Figueiredo expressed his eagerness for a chance to prove himself against O'Malley if the UFC deems it fitting. The Brazilian, confident in his abilities, believes that a significant opponent should be next in line given his former champion status and successful debut against the seasoned Font.

"I think that he has something to worry about," Figueiredo stated through his translator. "I'm the original. And if he's the virus, I'm the antivirus to him."

Asserting his belief in a big name entering the division, Figueiredo sees the possibility of facing a notable opponent. "I'm a two-time former champion. My last fight at 125 [pounds against Brandon Moreno,] I had not had a good camp and now I am great. I feel that could be a possibility. However, I will patiently await what the UFC has in mind for me."

Figueiredo, under the guidance of former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo, expresses satisfaction with their partnership and has no plans to change teams. Praising Cejudo's strategies and insights, Figueiredo feels comfortable with his current coaching setup in Arizona.

"I really like him," Figueiredo said of Cejudo. "His strategies are awesome. He will be the master of masters among my coaches. I feel really, really comfortable here."

Reflecting on his recent performance, Figueiredo rebounded from a TKO loss to Brandon Moreno in January by defeating Rob Font in his UFC bantamweight debut on December 2. The 36-year-old Brazilian, who lost the flyweight belt earlier this year, boasts an impressive record with notable wins over Joseph Benavidez, Brandon Moreno, John Moraga, and the current flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.

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Figueiredo's losses, only three in his UFC career, include the recent defeat to Moreno in 2021 and 2023, and a unanimous decision loss to Jussier Formiga in March 2019. As he awaits his next challenge in the bantamweight division, Figueiredo remains a formidable force with a compelling resume in the octagon.