UFC 332 is fast approaching, with Deiveson Figueiredo facing a significant test. The former two-time flyweight champion is scheduled to battle Payton Talbott on the main card in Salt Lake City on October 3. Despite competing at 135 pounds for nearly three years, Figueiredo is eager to drop back down to flyweight and challenge Joshua Van for the title once again.
At UFC 332 media day, Figueiredo revealed he has already requested the UFC to allow him to return to flyweight for a chance to become a three-time champion by facing the current belt holder.
Expressing his confidence, Figueiredo told reporters, “I’ve been telling the UFC that making the weight will be easy for me. I just want the fight, the opportunity to prove if his boxing is really as good as mine.” The Brazilian is certain he can finish Van and said, “Absolutely, it has to happen. If the UFC gives me the chance, I’ll go out there and knock him out.”
Figueiredo also compared his striking skills to Van’s, explaining why he believes the fight would favor him. “Everyone wants to trade strikes with him because he’s a striker. I’m both a striker and a grappler, so if he wants to stand and strike, the result won’t be the same—he won’t want to trade blows with me.”
He also shared his thoughts on Alexandre Pantoja’s tactics during UFC 331, when Van retained his title in a five-round performance. Figueiredo commented, “Pantoja is an incredible fighter, but his game plan seemed off—he focused too much on striking. Why not lean more on his excellent jiu-jitsu in that fight?”
Seeing Figueiredo drop back to 125 pounds would be intriguing, given the power he brings to the division. However, Van, just 24 years old, represents the sport’s new wave of flyweights, boasting two successful title defenses against Tatsuro Taira at UFC 328 and Pantoja at UFC 331.
Meanwhile, Figueiredo is currently on a two-fight losing streak and has lost much of his former momentum. At 38 years old, he is beyond his prime, making a return to the lighter division a challenging gamble. Additionally, rising contenders like Manel Kape are waiting in line for a shot at Van’s title, potentially complicating Figueiredo’s hoped-for flyweight comeback.
Fan Take: This storyline highlights the classic clash between experience and youth in MMA, with Figueiredo seeking redemption against a dominant new champion. Fans should watch closely, as this matchup could redefine the flyweight division’s future and showcase whether a former champ can reclaim glory against the rising star.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
