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UFC Flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo will defend his belt for the first time at UFC 255 against Alex Perez. ‘Deus de Guerra’ was originally slated to fight Cody Garbrandt, however, ‘No Love’ pulled out due to injury.

The aforementioned bout is a fan-friendly clash between two of the most lethal finishers in the flyweight division as it stands. Figueiredo comes in with a nearly perfect professional record that stands at 19-1.

Deiveson came very close to joining other undefeated champions like Kamaru Usman and Israel Adesanya who hold unblemished records. Chiefly, his lone loss came not too long ago, however, the evolution to his game is clear.

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What’s more, Alex Perez holds a win over the last man to defeat him, Jussier Formiga.

UFC Nashville: Deiveson Figueiredo vs Jussier Formiga

The only loss on Deiveson’s record came on the main card for UFC Nashville on March 23, 2019. The bout is only 4 fights removed from Deiveson’s most recent fight where he captured the undisputed championship.

‘Deus de Guerra’ will be keen to correct his only MMA loss to Formiga once he handles his business at UFC 255.

Deiveson Figueiredo relied on brisk movement in the opening moments of the fight and sent Jussier on the defensive. Chiefly, the Brazilian’s power was well known to the divisional contenders, and Formiga didn’t want to be caught napping.

Although tentative, he played the early game wisely, avoiding any massive power shots. Jussier Formiga was able to score a rare takedown against Deiveson and even mounted a power position.

The current 125-pound champion’s strength and evasiveness were on full display, and he was swiftly back to his feet.

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Figueiredo was looking for the big shot to begin the second, and his overzealousness allowed Formiga to earn a clean takedown. Additionally, he maintained a dominant top position for the entirety of the round. He faced adversity when Deiveson threw a well-placed elbow from the guard and sliced Formiga wide open.

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The final round also saw Jussier take the fight to the canvas with a throw. Deiveson Figueiredo refused to go down without a fight and snagged a guillotine that briefly threatened Formiga.

As the final bell sounded it was largely apparent that Jussier Formiga’s ground assault was enough to win the day. He etched the only loss on Figueiredo’s record after earning a unanimous decision with 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28.