Deiveson Figueiredo is pushing for a return to flyweight to challenge Joshua Van for the UFC title after nearly three years competing at bantamweight. The former two-time flyweight champion, who faces Payton Talbott on the main card at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City on October 3, told reporters during media day that he has already asked the UFC to move him back down to 125 pounds for a shot at Van’s belt.
“I’ve been asking the UFC and telling them I will make that weight very easy,” Figueiredo said. “I’ve been asking them to just make the fight; I want that opportunity, and let’s see if his boxing is as good as mine.”
Figueiredo expressed strong confidence that he could finish Van if given the chance. “Two hundred percent. It needs to happen. The UFC gives me an opportunity, I go out there and knock him out,” he said. The Brazilian also compared his style to Van’s, highlighting his combined striking and grappling abilities. “Everybody wants to exchange with him, and he’s a striker. I’m a striker and a grappler, so believe me, if he wants to strike with me, the effect won’t be the same, and he will not want to exchange with me.”
Van, 24, has established himself as the new face of the flyweight division with two successful title defenses. He defeated Tatsuro Taira at UFC 328 and Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 331. After seeing Van’s performance against Pantoja, Figueiredo critiqued Pantoja’s approach, suggesting the former champion relied too heavily on striking instead of utilizing his grappling skills. “Pantoja’s an amazing fighter, but I think the game plan was wrong because he was just trying to push the striking in this fight. Why not use more grappling in this fight with the excellent jiu-jitsu he’s got?” Figueiredo said.
The move back to flyweight would come after Figueiredo spent almost three years at bantamweight. He is currently on a two-fight losing streak and at 38 years old is past what many consider his prime. His return to 125 pounds involves risks, particularly given the rise of younger contenders in the division.
Contenders like Manel Kape are also in line for a title shot, which could complicate Figueiredo’s chances of securing a quick rematch. Still, the Brazilian’s power and experience at flyweight make his desired comeback a notable prospect for the division.
Figueiredo’s fight with Payton Talbott at UFC 332 remains confirmed, but his future could hinge on the UFC’s decision regarding his request. The promotion has yet to announce an official flyweight title fight between Figueiredo and Van.
According to Yahoo Sports.