Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo face off in an electrifying main event at UFC Fight Night 248, held at the Galaxy Arena in Macau, China, on November 23, 2024.
Both fighters are former champions in their respective divisions, and this bout serves as a pivotal moment in their careers as they look to claim a title shot in the stacked bantamweight division.
Fight Overview
- Petr Yan: A former UFC bantamweight champion, Yan is known for his precise striking and relentless pressure. Despite a recent rocky period, Yan has rejuvenated his career with a dominant win over Song Yadong in March 2024.
- Deiveson Figueiredo: A two-time UFC flyweight champion, Figueiredo has found success at bantamweight since moving up, securing wins over top contenders like Cody Garbrandt and Marlon Vera. He brings power, unpredictability, and strong grappling to the Octagon.
Tale of the Tape
| Category | Petr Yan | Deiveson Figueiredo |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 17-5 (MMA), 9-4 (UFC) | 24-3-1 (MMA), 13-3-1 (UFC) |
| Age | 31 | 36 |
| Height | 5’7″ | 5’5″ |
| Reach | 67″ | 68″ |
| Style | Switch-stance Muay Thai | Switch-stance Muay Thai |
| Significant Strikes Landed Per Minute | 5.14 | 3.01 |
| Striking Defense | 58% | 51% |
| Takedown Defense | 85% | 58% |
| Last Fight | Win via decision (Song Yadong) | Win via decision (Marlon Vera) |
What’s at Stake?
This bout could determine the next title challenger in the bantamweight division. Reigning champion Merab Dvalishvili has praised Figueiredo as a worthy contender, but Yan believes a victory over Figueiredo will solidify his claim to the belt.
The stakes couldn’t be higher with both fighters at a crossroads in their careers.
Key Matchup Factors
Striking Battle
Yan’s striking arsenal is among the best in the UFC. His ability to switch stances, throw precise combinations, and apply constant pressure often overwhelms opponents. Figueiredo, on the other hand, relies on his power and timing, frequently using counterpunches and calf kicks to disrupt his adversaries’ rhythm.
Advantage: Yan’s precision and volume give him the edge in extended exchanges.
Grappling Dynamics
Figueiredo’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and grappling prowess have been key to his success, especially at flyweight. However, Yan’s exceptional takedown defense and sambo background make him hard to control on the ground.
Advantage: Yan’s defensive grappling may nullify Figueiredo’s submission attempts.
Cardio and Durability
While Figueiredo’s explosive style has brought him success, his stamina has been a recurring issue, particularly in five-round fights. Yan is known for his ability to build momentum as fights progress, making him dangerous in the later rounds.
Advantage: Yan’s endurance and pacing could be decisive if the fight goes the distance.
Prediction
Winner: Petr Yan via Unanimous Decision.
Yan’s ability to adapt mid-fight, combined with his technical striking and superior cardio, makes him the favorite. Figueiredo’s power poses an early threat, but Yan’s defense and pressure will likely wear down the Brazilian as the fight progresses.
Odds and Betting Analysis
| Fighter | Odds |
|---|---|
| Petr Yan | -310 (Favorite) |
| Deiveson Figueiredo | +230 (Underdog) |
Yan’s status as the favorite reflects his technical advantage and consistency at bantamweight. Figueiredo’s odds as the underdog highlight concerns about his durability and stamina against a high-output fighter like Yan.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
- Start Time: Prelims – 3 a.m. ET, Main Card – 6 a.m. ET
- Location: Galaxy Arena, Macau, China
- Main Event Walkouts: Approx. 8:30 a.m. ET
- Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View
