Deiveson Figueiredo is in a very weird spot right now. Ever since 2020, the only opponent he fought has been Brandon Moreno. On the flip side, the only opponent Figueiredo has ever lost to in the UFC (bar Jussier Formiga) has also been ‘The Assassin Baby’. With their fourth fight reaching a definitive conclusion, Deiveson has finally decided to move on.
What did Deiveson Figueiredo announce?
“Unfortunately, it is time to leave this division. I’ve done a lot; congratulations to Brandon, but I’m moving up,” said the former champ after getting defeated by his rival for the second time.
He cited weight issues as the reason for moving up saying, “I’ve done a lot. I fight for everyone that has a dream to be here, but I’m tired of making this weight. That’s why I’m moving up.”
Now the time has come to speculate potential matchups for the 35-year-old. Bantamweight is a stacked division with no shortage of hungry sharks looking for a way to climb the rankings. Figueiredo brings a significant reputation with him so many will probably be willing to invite him to the new division.
Umar Nurmagomedov
Umar is currently one of the hottest prospects in the Bantamweight division. Not only does he carry the name ‘Nurmagomedov’ but he has proven himself with dominating performances in all his 4 matches. Especially his last performance against Raoni Barcelos saw him deliver a brutal KO within the first round.
Now that Jose Aldo is out, the young AKA prospect can be a great candidate to face the veteran Deiveson.
Dominick Cruz
Unlike Umar, Dominick Cruz is not having a good time inside the Octagon at all. While many praise his fight IQ as one of the highest in the industry, his body just doesn’t seem able to keep up. Cruz has faced his fair share of legends back in the day and a fight against Figueiredo can only add to his resume.
If he wins, he can try for another title run, but if he loses then it would be a good point to call it a career.
Who do you think should fight the former Flyweight champ next?
