After his successful debut in his new division, Deiveson Figueiredo believes he’s ready to take down the bantamweight champ if UFC gives him the title shot. 

“Deus Da Guerra” made a successful entrance to the bantamweight when he defeated Rob Font at UFC on ESPN 52 last Saturday. Figueiredo consumed all rounds and won via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27), but it was an impressive performance after a class weight change.

Prior to this bout, Figueiredo had revealed his intention to soon face Dominick Cruz and division champion Sean O’Malley, saying he wanted to test his striking skills. The fighter didn’t reiterate this after his latest success but said he would be ready in case UFC gives him the title shot, suggesting his win over Font gives him credibility.

“Being a former champion, if they were to put me in there to fight for the title, I’m super prepared for that,” Figueiredo said at the UFC on ESPN 52 post-fight press conference. “I’m a former champion in the division below, where there are incredible fighters. I showed that I deserve that. Rob is one of the best in the division, and I want to test myself. If they give me the title (shot), I’ll accept.”

O’Malley is the current champ in the bantamweight division. “Sugar” is set to defend his belt against Marlon Vera in a headline bout at UFC 299 in March. In case O’Malley wins and remains the champion, Figueiredo thinks he can handle the bout with the help of his team, which includes Henry Cejudo.

“I’m a guy that’s got a lot of jiu-jitsu,” said Figueiredo. “ I’m truly a grappler, but I never liked using it. I’m a guy that would use a lot of striking in the octagon because I like to brawl. Certainly, I would make a great fight against Sean O’Malley. If I were to fight him and get to the ground, I’d finish him.”

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