Deiveson Figueiredo was a physical force at 125lbs for years. However the former UFC flyweight champion has now found a home in the bantamweight division.
Tenuous weight cuts marred the true potential of Figueiredo at at flyweight, yet the Brazilian was still able to become champion and defend his title.
A title loss to Brandon Moreno saw him move up to 135lbs, where he is yet to see anything but success.
“Deus da Guerra” made his bantamweight debut last December against ranked contender Rob Font, putting on a stellar performance to earn an unanimous decision victory.
He then went on to submit former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt at UFC 300 – truly making his mark on the division.
Deiveson Figueiredo Critiques Finishing Ability of UFC bantamweight Champion Sean O’Malley
The next task in front of Figueiredo comes in the shape of Ecuadorian finisher, Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera this weekend. A staple at bantamweight for over a decade now, Vera comes in looking to rebound from a loss against reigning champion, Sean O’Malley.
Flyweight’s former king is far from impressed with the self proclaimed ‘Suga Show’, claiming he lacks finishing ability.
Speaking at UFC Abu Dhabi’s media day, Deiveson compared O’Malley and himself to two of the most accomplished heavyweight boxers ever.
“Sean O’Malley is like Muhammad Ali, he lands a lot but never knocks anyone out. I’m like Mike Tyson“.
Known for his devastating power at flyweight, Figueredo was able to violently finish Joseph Benavidez twice, which saw him claim 125lbs gold.
Double Champion Goals
Now roaming a new division, the Brazilian has his eyes set on claiming both the bantamweight and flyweight titles, which has been a goal since he won his first belt.
“My main objective right now is to become a double champ. I’m gonna become the champ in this division and I’m gonna knock [Vera] out on my way to the title. I think that’s what is gonna give me a title shot, and then I’ll become a double champ and just have to wait for the Hall of Fame induction at the end of my career.”
O’Malley is currently set to defend his title against Georgian grinder, Merab Dvalishvili at UFC Noche this September.
If Figureido is able to set himself up a title shot this weekend, there is no promise he will be facing ‘Suga’ by the time his opportunity comes around.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images