Deiveson Figueiredo will make UFC history later tonight (Sat., Dec. 12, 2020) at UFC 256 live on ESPN+ PPV from inside UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, as he defends his flyweight title just 21 days after his last defense when he squares off with top contender Brandon Moreno.
While this will be just Figueiredo’s second title defense since winning the belt over Joseph Benavidez back in July the Brazilian champion is beginning to gain some serious notoriety across the MMA world. After all, a win at UFC 256 would push Figueiredo’s 2020 record to 4-0, including two successful flyweight title defenses.
Beyond Figueiredo’s performances inside of the cage, it is his willingness to step up on short notice to defend his title that is capturing the attention of many across the sport, including UFC president Dana White. In a recent interview with ESPN, White gushed over Figueiredo, as well as Moreno, for scheduling their title fight just 21 days after their last trips to the Octagon at UFC 255.
“It’s incredible,” said White. “Not only do I love [the quick turnarounds they’re making], and it’s great for the sport, but the fans love it. I mean, if you’re a real fight fan, you love guys like this that just fought, both coming off incredible finishes, and then turn right around and fight each other again three weeks later. It’s the champion versus the number one contender, it doesn’t get any better than that.”
For Figueiredo, this is another opportunity to prove he’s ready to take control of the UFC’s flyweight division and help bring it to the forefront of the promotion. Remember, White and company were thinking about dissolving the flyweight division just a few years ago. Former champion Henry Cejudo helped save the 125-pound roster and now Figueiredo will try to take it to the next level.
“Figueiredo has been on a roll man, this kid’s an absolute monster,” said White. “He’s been destroying everyone since he’s been champion too. I don’t know. That’s how the oddsmakers have it. I don’t know if that’s actually how the fight really plays out, but that’s how they have it.”
We’re going to find out one way or another later tonight at UFC 256 if Figueiredo made a mistake in booking his next title defense with just three weeks to prepare. Moreno is the betting underdog for their main event clash, but “Assassin Baby” has defied the odds before and is certainly capable of pulling off the upset. Figueiredo will have his hands full.
MMAmania.com will deliver LIVE round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of the entire UFC 256 fight card right HERE, starting with the early ESPN+ “Prelims” matches online, which are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET, then the remaining undercard balance on ESPN 2/ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET, before the PPV main card start time at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+ PPV.
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