Deiveson Figueiredo Eyes Bantamweight Gold, Compares Sean O’Malley to Muhammad Ali
Former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo has found renewed success since moving up to the bantamweight division, and he has his sights firmly set on current champion Sean O’Malley.
After losing his 125lb title to Brandon Moreno in January last year, Figueiredo decided to move up to bantamweight for a fresh challenge. His debut at 135lb came against Rob Font this past December, where ‘Deus Da Guerra’ proved he would be a formidable force in his new weight class.
Following that victory, Figueiredo faced former champion Cody Garbrandt at UFC 300, securing an impressive second-round submission.
Next on Figueiredo’s agenda is Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera, with the two scheduled to clash at UFC Abu Dhabi this coming Saturday. A win over Vera could potentially earn him a title shot. The Brazilian fighter has long campaigned for a bout against Sean O’Malley, even during his reign as flyweight king.
In a recent media day appearance, Figueiredo made an intriguing comparison between O’Malley and two boxing legends. “Sean O’Malley is like Muhammad Ali, he lands a lot but never knocks anyone out. I’m like Mike Tyson,” Figueiredo declared. This statement raised eyebrows considering the 29-year-old champion’s record of 11 knockouts in 19 fights, boasting an impressive highlight reel.
Despite the unusual comparison, Figueiredo’s main goal remains clear: to become a two-weight world champion. “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,” he stated. “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.”
Figueiredo has also been training with former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and his team ahead of his third bantamweight outing. This collaboration aims to enhance his wrestling and grappling skills.
However, Marlon Vera remains unfazed by Figueiredo’s new training partnership. At the media day, Vera confidently dismissed any concerns about Figueiredo’s improved grappling. “F***, yeah, Khabib, that’s cool. He can try to hump my leg but I’m gonna slice him open with elbows. Even if he’d spent three months with Khabib or a year with Khabib, I don’t give a f***,” Vera declared.
As Figueiredo prepares for his bout with Vera, the bantamweight division continues to heat up. Looking ahead, Vera also commented on the upcoming title fight between O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306, expressing concerns about Merab’s durability.
With his eyes set on O’Malley and a potential title shot, Figueiredo is determined to carve out a legacy as a two-weight world champion. Only time will tell if he can achieve his goal and secure his place among the greats.
Deiveson Figueiredo’s transition to the bantamweight division has been nothing short of impressive. His journey from flyweight champion to potential two-weight world champion is a testament to his skill and determination. The comparisons he draws and his bold statements add an intriguing layer to his personality, making him a captivating figure in the UFC. As fight fans, we eagerly anticipate his clash with Marlon Vera and the subsequent matchups that may follow.
