Deiveson Figueiredo is in a bit of a pickle. He’s fresh off a successful bantamweight debut at UFC on ESPN 52. Happened just this past Saturday night.
He’s got a win under his belt now. Beat Rob Font, and that’s no small feat. Did it via unanimous decision at UFC Austin. Now, he’s got his eyes on some big fish in the bantamweight division. He’s not shy about it either. Spilled his guts in an exclusive interview with Sherdog.com.
“Font? He’s had his share of fights with former champs and top dogs in the division,” Figueiredo said. Some folks thought he was too big for me. But I showed ’em, didn’t I? Showed ’em what I can do when I’m feeling good and in top shape.
He’s got ambitions, this guy. “Used to be a champ myself, y’know. If UFC decided to let me have a shot at the title, I’d surprise a lot of fans. Again.” He’s got his eye on Sean O’Malley. “Great striker, that one. But I trust my team’s strategy. I love a good fight in the Octagon. Against O’Malley though, I think my jiu-jitsu would tip the scales. If I get my hands on him, I’d submit him.”
But Figueiredo’s a realist. He knows UFC might want him to face another Top 10 opponent next. He’s got three names in mind.
“The division’s tough, no doubt about it. My plan? Keep training. Every day. Improve my technique. Stay fit and ready for any UFC call,” he said. “If I’m not up against the current champ now, there are a few other possibilities. Former champs like Aljamain Sterling, Dominick Cruz, or Petr Yan. Any of ’em would make sense for me. But it’s UFC’s call.”