Deiveson Figueiredo, a standout fighter in the UFC’s flyweight division, has earned a reputation as one of the sport’s most thrilling and dynamic athletes. Known for his ferocious fighting style, intense aggression, and ability to finish fights spectacularly, Figueiredo has become a prominent figure in the 125-pound weight class. With his combination of technical skill and raw power, he has gained widespread respect, quickly becoming a household name in mixed martial arts (MMA).
In this article, we’ll dive into Figueiredo’s journey to UFC stardom, his fighting style, and major career milestones, and provide answers to some frequently asked questions about the Brazilian knockout artist.
Early Life and Background
Born on December 18, 1987, in Soure, a small town in the state of Pará, Brazil, Deiveson “Deus da Guerra” Figueiredo grew up in humble beginnings. Raised in a working-class family, Figueiredo was introduced to martial arts at a young age, training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and later exploring boxing. Initially, his athletic focus was on soccer, but he eventually shifted to combat sports after discovering his passion for MMA.
Figueiredo’s entry into MMA was motivated by a desire to challenge himself and create a career in sports. His early training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, combined with his athleticism, set the stage for an MMA career that would quickly gain momentum.
From Regional Star to UFC Contender
Figueiredo’s MMA career began in 2012, and he quickly made a name for himself on the Brazilian fight circuit. Known for his knockout power and submission skills, Figueiredo attracted the attention of UFC scouts. By 2017, after a string of dominant performances, he was offered the chance to compete in the UFC.
He made his UFC debut on July 16, 2017, at UFC Fight Night: Nelson vs. Ponzinibbio, where he faced veteran Joseph Benavidez. Despite the high-level competition, Figueiredo impressed with his unorthodox striking and ability to control the fight, securing a unanimous decision victory. This victory marked the beginning of his ascent in the UFC flyweight division.
Dominance in the Flyweight Division
Figueiredo’s rise through the UFC flyweight ranks was rapid. After his debut win, he continued to build on his success, defeating fighters such as John Moraga, Tim Elliott, and Alexandre Pantoja. However, his most significant achievement came in 2020, when he captured the UFC Flyweight Championship.
Becoming Champion: A Moment to Remember
Figueiredo’s first opportunity to compete for the flyweight title came at UFC 255 on November 21, 2020, against the then-champion, Brandon Moreno. Figueiredo entered the fight already regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, and he lived up to the hype by defeating Alex Perez in just under two minutes via submission. This victory earned him the vacant flyweight title, marking a new chapter in his career.
His championship reign would soon lead to one of the most captivating rivalries in UFC flyweight history. In December 2020, Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno faced off for the first time in a bout that ended in a majority draw. The intense nature of their encounter only heightened the anticipation for their rematch, which would come to define Figueiredo’s legacy.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Deiveson Figueiredo’s fighting style is a unique blend of aggression, speed, and technical skill. Drawing from his Brazilian roots, Figueiredo integrates powerful striking with world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, making him a versatile and well-rounded fighter.
Striking: Powerful and Unpredictable
Figueiredo’s striking is aggressive and unorthodox. He is known for his forward-moving approach, using a variety of punches to overwhelm opponents. His heavy hands and quick reflexes make him a dangerous knockout threat, as seen in his spectacular KO victories, including his win over Tim Elliott.
His right hand is particularly lethal, often landing cleanly and with devastating power. Alongside his punches, Figueiredo incorporates leg kicks and unpredictable strikes, keeping opponents guessing and off balance.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: A Threat on the Ground
While Figueiredo’s striking is his most well-known skill, his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) expertise is just as impressive. A black belt in BJJ, Figueiredo has displayed an ability to seamlessly transition from striking to grappling. His submission game is dangerous, and he has won several fights by rear-naked choke and armbar submissions.
Figueiredo’s well-rounded skill set on the ground allows him to control opponents in all positions, from top control to working from guard. His ability to mix his striking and grappling effectively makes him a formidable opponent in any scenario.
Cardio and Durability
Despite his aggressive fighting style, Figueiredo has shown impressive cardio and durability throughout his career. Even in high-intensity, five-round bouts, he can maintain his pace and continue pressuring his opponents. This was particularly evident in his trilogy with Brandon Moreno, where Figueiredo demonstrated not only physical endurance but also mental toughness in overcoming adversity.
Figueiredo’s resilience has earned him a reputation as a fighter who can withstand punishment and keep pushing forward. He has never been knocked out in his professional career, and his ability to endure difficult situations in the octagon has made him a fan favorite.
Memorable Fights and Rivalries
Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Brandon Moreno
The rivalry between Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno is one of the most memorable in UFC history. Their first bout at UFC 256 in December 2020 ended in a majority draw after five rounds of action-packed fighting. The draw only fueled the anticipation for their rematch, which took place at UFC 263 in June 2021. This time, Moreno secured a submission victory in the third round, taking the flyweight title from Figueiredo.
However, Figueiredo wasn’t done yet. The two fighters met once more in January 2022 at UFC 270 for their trilogy bout. In a hard-fought battle, Figueiredo regained the flyweight title by winning a unanimous decision, solidifying his status as one of the division’s top fighters.
Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Joseph Benavidez
One of Figueiredo’s early breakout moments came in February 2020, when he faced Joseph Benavidez for the vacant flyweight title at UFC Fight Night 169. Figueiredo won dramatically, knocking out Benavidez in the second round and announcing his arrival as one of the most dangerous fighters in the flyweight division.
Legacy and What’s Next
As of 2023, Deiveson Figueiredo is still considered one of the best flyweights in the world. His knockout power, submission skills, and mental toughness have earned him a place in the UFC’s elite ranks. Despite setbacks in his rivalry with Moreno, Figueiredo remains a major force in the division and is likely to stay a contender for years to come.
A Closing Perspective
Deiveson Figueiredo’s rise in the UFC flyweight division is a testament to his unrelenting drive and unmatched skill. His aggressive striking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mastery, and heart make him one of the most exciting fighters in MMA today. As Figueiredo continues to make his mark on the sport, the flyweight division is sure to be electrified by his presence for years to come.
FAQs:-
What is Deiveson Figueiredo’s current record?
As of November 2024, Deiveson Figueiredo holds a professional MMA record of 21 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw.
What does Deiveson Figueiredo’s nickname mean?
Deiveson Figueiredo’s nickname, “Deus da Guerra”, translates to “God of War” in Portuguese. The name reflects his relentless, aggressive fighting style and his dominance inside the octagon.
Has Figueiredo ever been knocked out?
No, Figueiredo has never been knocked out in his career. His losses have come by submission or decision, but he has never been finished by knockout.
How tall is Figueiredo?
Figueiredo stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall, with a reach of 68 inches (173 cm), giving him an edge over many of his flyweight opponents.
What is Figueiredo’s fighting style?
Figueiredo is known for his explosive striking, knockout power, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise. He is a well-rounded fighter who can dominate both standings and on the ground.
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