Deiveson Figueiredo Reveals UFC Plans- Says He Will Defend Belt 5 Times Before Shifting Divisions

Current UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo prepares for his first title defense this weekend. At UFC 255, ‘Deus da Guerra’ will defend his belt against Alex Perez. The fight was initially scheduled between Figueiredo and Cody Garbrandt.

However, with Cody pulling out due to health issues, Perez seized the opportunity to step in for the world title.

Ahead of his title fight, Deiveson sat down with the media to discuss his goals and ambitions in the UFC.

 Deiveson Figueiredo wants five title defenses

“My main goal is to defend the belt five times and go up to [the] bantamweight division,” the Brazilian star said.

In his first fight against Joseph Benavidez, Figueiredo would miss weight. This resulted in him not being able to capture gold with his victory over Benavidez. The dominance showcased by ‘Deus da Guerra’ had the UFC book him an immediate rematch.

This time Figueiredo would not disappoint, making the weight and winning the title. The Brazilian acknowledges that he has given his nutritionist trouble making weight.

“I was born in Para state, Acai is part of our culture, we have eaten it since we were born,” the flyweight champion said.

“Dr. Lia [Figueiredo’s nutritionist] had a hard time to quit Acai from my diet, but we did it. Today, I’m eating carbohydrates only for breakfast; salad and vegetables with one protein in lunch and dinner. I’m also drinking seven liters of water per day. And that’s how I’m weighing 141 pounds two weeks before the fight.”

Fight with Cody Garbrandt

Figueiredo isn’t quite sure why Garbrandt pulled out of the fight. “To tell you the truth I didn’t understand what happened to Cody,” the champion admitted. “In the following days of his bicep injury announcement, I saw him on Instagram working out in a gym. How come? I hope one day that fight happens.”

However, this doesn’t seem to have affected the champion. He continued, “But they have similar styles. Perez has two dangerous blows: a straight punch and an overhand, and I’m pretty well trained for both. I don’t underestimate any opponent, but I’ll keep my rhythm until I knock him out.”

The UFC flyweight title will be on the line this weekend and could represent the final title fight of 2020. Will we see Figueiredo continue his reign or will there be a new flyweight champion?

Read : All You Need to Know About Deiveson Figueiredo