Deiveson Figueiredo sees Merab Dvalishvili pulling off an upset title protection towards Umar Nurmagomedov within the first UFC title bout of 2025.
Dvalishvili (18-4 MMA, 11-2 UFC) will put his bantamweight strap up for grabs towards the unbeaten Nurmagomedov (18-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) within the co-main occasion of UFC 311 (pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+), which takes place Jan. 18 at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, Calif.
Though he’s the reigning champion on a 12-fight successful streak contained in the octagon, Dvalishvili finds himself because the betting underdog to Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. There may be a lot hype round Nurmagomedov’s potential greatness, however 135-pound contender Figueiredo (24-4-1 MMA, 13-4-1 UFC) expects the belt to remain put.
“I have a tendency extra for Merab,” Figueiredo instructed MMA Junkie by an interpreter. “The explanation I do that is his placing is just not refined, however he manages to tire individuals and confuse individuals so he can get them down. However, Umar is a man that is aware of how one can submit from the underside, so there may be that danger for Merab. However after 5 rounds, I see Merab’s hand being raised.”
Figueiredo might be preserving an in depth eye on issues as UFC 311 unfolds. He would’ve seemingly been subsequent to problem the winner if not for a November loss to Petr Yan, however Figueiredo continues to be pushing for the belt.
Though he’s open to returning to flyweight for a rematch with Alexandre Pantoja, the Brazilian stated his desire is to remain at bantamweight and look so as to add one other divisional title to his resume.
“I’m targeted on being the 135 champ,” Figueiredo stated. “I’ve some changes to make. The 135 title, I’m targeted on that. I’m going to make some changes to my sport and reinvent myself and get that title.”
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