On January 21, 2023, when Deiveson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno entered the Jeunesse Arena at UFC 283, they created history by competing in the first quadrilogy. Notably, both the flyweights who previously claimed a win against each other, including a draw in the mix, ultimately pull down the curtains on their rivalry. The co-main event of the first numbered event of the year 2023 on Saturday night, as expected, stood on the fans’ expectations. The rivalry that will find its place in history books, reached its conclusion with the Mexican fighter reigning supreme. Thus, now Moreno stands at the top of the featherweight division, waiting for a new challenger, not named Figueiredo.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Notably, both fighters engaged in a back-and-forth fight where the interim champion upgraded to the undisputed champion as he scored a victory via TKO after the doctor stopped the fight after round 3.
What happened in the clash of two flyweight titans at UFC 283?
Both the fighters who met each other thrice in the Octagon faced each other with the same intensity and determination to settle the rivalry once and for all. However, both the fighters adopted a cautious approach, but it was Moreno using his high guard who went for big blows after sitting in and gauging his opponents. Waiting and looking for a counter seemed the game plan for the Mexican fighter. Exchanging the blows, both the fighters appeared on equal footing and there was nothing separating them both until Morena attempted a takedown. However, Figueiredo pulled out a reversal and the first round ended on a competitive note.
In the second round, Figueiredo assumed the role of aggressor. Markedly, the exchange of blows remained a constant sight in the second round. Therefore, Figueiredo appeared a bit busted on his right side. Thus, the Fortis MMA team representative remained slightly ahead in the initial half of the second round.
Figueiredo again appeared more aggressive in his approach in round 3. On the other hand, the 20-6-2 record holder appeared comfortable with whatever his opponent had to offer.
Moreno caught Figueiredo with a big left punch that cut his left eye and the follow-up shot poked Figueiredo’s other side, which Figueiredo protested. While Figueiredo was protesting, Moreno continued his pursuit and put him on the mat. Noticeably, the left eye of the 35-year-old gave him trouble.
How did the fans react to the fight and its aftermath?
Ultimately, the left eye trouble proved too much for the 21-2-1 record holder and due to doctor stoppage, ‘The Assassin Baby’ got his hand raised. Thus, finally emerging as the victor.
While the newly crowned champion tried to leave the arena with his UFC gold, the audience didn’t like the defeat he handed over to the home town fighter. Thus, what followed was an expression of frustration, anger and the dashing of their hopes and Morena ended on the receiving end of it.
My gosh Moreno running and being protected leaving the arena as a lot of things thrown at him by the crowd!! #ufc283
— Caroline Pearce (@CarolinePearce) January 22, 2023
Moreno is escorted out of the arena by security as the extremely classy crowd throws objects at him. #UFC283
— Sherdog (@sherdogdotcom) January 22, 2023
Nothing dirty at all, clean shot by the new champion Brandon Moreno! #UFC283 he really outclassed Figgy tonight. He was cruising
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) January 22, 2023
Deiveson Figueiredo's eye completely shut. Right call to stop the fight. #UFC283 pic.twitter.com/OKllhgtO4d
— Danny Segura (@dannyseguratv) January 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rio fans showering Moreno on the way out with drinks. Horrible.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) January 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you think of this bout? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch This Story: Five times Brandon Moreno obliterated his opponents inside the UFC cage