Deiveson Figueiredo made a triumphant return to winning ways after 14 months. The Brazilian star thrilled the Rio crowd by outworking Montel Jackson in a tense co-main event showdown.
Strong Start on the Ground
Figueiredo wasted no time taking charge. Early in the first round, he brought Jackson down and immediately threatened a guillotine choke. Moments later, he transitioned to a rear-naked choke attempt before Jackson scrambled back to his feet.
In the final seconds of the round, Figueiredo landed sharp strikes that set the tone. He opened the second round with another quick takedown, smoothly moving into full mount. From there, he threatened with an arm-triangle choke, keeping Jackson on the defensive.
Control and Precision Earn the Win
Jackson fought back with short exchanges, but Figueiredo kept control. His superior ground game and pressure dictated every round. One judge surprisingly scored it 29–28 for Jackson, yet the other two sided with Figueiredo. The result gave the former champion a split-decision win.
A Comeback After Hard Defeats
Figueiredo’s victory ended a frustrating run of losses to Petr Yan and Cory Sandhagen. The two-time flyweight champion had opened his bantamweight campaign with three wins before that slump. His latest performance showed renewed focus and discipline.
Jackson’s Momentum Stopped Cold
For Montel Jackson, the loss snapped a six-fight winning streak. It was his first defeat since 2020, when he fell to Brett Johns by decision.
Fans and fellow fighters praised Figueiredo’s performance online. Many said his timing, control, and resilience reminded everyone why he once ruled the flyweight division.
