In an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net, Eric Albarracin, the coach of Deiveson Figueiredo and Paul Costa, shared his thoughts on Figueiredo's upcoming fight against Marlon Vera at UFC on ABC 7.
"Deiveson Figueiredo now is beter than ever. We are talking about a guy who has already been Fighter of the Year and is a former UFC Flyweight Champion. He has won two fights and just defeated former UFC Champion Cody Garbrandt, who has victories over Dominick Cruz, a top contender for the flyweight championship.
"We want to make a statement and hopefully secure a title fight because Marlon Vera is a very tough fighter. He has a victory over the current champion. He is one of the toughest guys who has never been knocked down and has never been finished. So we have a big challenge ahead, but... we will step into the cage and achieve victory. Figueiredo wants to become champion," said Albarracin.
My prediction? A knockout in the first round. Deiveson Figueiredo will be the first to defeat Marlon Vera early, and when he does, he will deserve the title.
Eric Albarracin exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
On August 3 in Abu Dhabi at UFC on ABC 7, Deiveson Figueiredo will face Marlon Vera. Figueiredo has a record of 23 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw. Vera, in his professional career, has achieved 23 wins, suffered 9 losses, and has 1 draw.