In an exciting battle of the flyweights, Deiveson Figueiredo bested Alexandre Pantoja, showcasing his striking skills to win a decision at UFC 240.
In a flyweight contest with title contention on the line, Brazilians collide as Alexandre Pantoja faced Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 240.
Pantoja entered the contest on a three-fight winning streak. In his most recent outing at UFC 236, Pantoja knocked out Wilson Reis in under three minutes to make a big statement at 125-pounds. The 29-year old is a former RFA champion. Pantoja had a UFC record of 5-1 before the bout, with his only loss a close decision defeat to Dustin Ortiz.
Figueiredo most recently suffered the first defeat of his career, when he lost a unanimous decision to fellow Brazilian contender Jussier Formiga. Prior to that bout, Figueiredo had won four straight contests in the UFC, including knockouts over Joseph Morales and John Moraga. The 31-year-old entered the contest wanting to prove himself as a top-contender at flyweight. Out of Figueiredo’s 15 MMA wins, 13 have ended via stoppage.
Round 1:
Both men touched gloves to kick off the opening prelim on ESPN. Figueiredo swung with a right hand early that just missed. Pantoja landed a knee to the body. Figueiredo landed a takedown on Pantoja. Pantoja managed to get back to his feet but did eat a few strikes on the way up. Figueiredo managed to land a huge right hand early. Figueiredo then followed up with a big body kick. Pantoja was a step behind on the feet in the first round, but managed to take control of Figueiredo’s back. Figueiredo defended well and avoided a kick from Pantoja on the exit. Both men threw wild right hands that missed. Both men threw big strikes as they brawled to end the round.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-9 Figueiredo.
Round 2:
Pantoja started the round pressing forward and landed body kicks. Pantoja attempted a single leg but Figueiredo defended it well. Figueiredo landed a leg kick but received a right hand for his troubles. Pantoja starting to gain confidence on the feet during the second round, as he landed a leg kick. Both men landed big strikes in the pocket. Figueiredo landed a beautiful jab. Figueiredo then attempted his own takedown but didn’t get it. Shortly after it was Pantoja’s turn, and he did get the takedown but Figueiredo was quick to get back to his feet. Ruthless exchanges between both and Figueiredo earns a knockdown to close out the round.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-9 Figueiredo.
Round 3:
Figueiredo clinches early and lands solid elbows against the cage. Figueiredo’s jab cannot miss so far. Pantoja charges forward but eats a right hand and some more brutal elbows. Pantoja was bloodied, but not beaten as he still continued to fight on. Figueiredo landed a takedown and had mount quickly before both men got back to their feet. The elbows of Figueiredo have been key so far. Pantoja continued to press forward throughout the last-minute, but Figueiredo’s movement and range awareness was too much tonight, as he should win the decision.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-
Official Result: Deiveson Figueiredo def. Alexandre Pantoja via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3).
