UFC Macau Live Results: Yan vs. Figueiredo
The UFC returned to Macau for a highly anticipated fight card featuring a thrilling main event between two elite fighters: Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo.
The matchup in the bantamweight division promised to deliver a high-level clash, with both fighters bringing their world-class skill sets to the Octagon.
UFC fans were eagerly awaiting this battle between the Russian fighter Yan and the Brazilian powerhouse Figueiredo, both known for their aggressive styles and elite techniques.
This event was particularly significant for both fighters as they were coming off mixed results in their recent bouts. Yan, a former bantamweight champion, had been looking to regain his position at the top after a narrow loss to Aljamain Sterling for the title, while Figueiredo, a former flyweight champion, sought to establish himself in a new division. The stakes were high, and both men knew that a victory would put them on a strong path back to title contention.
Round 1: A Fast-Paced Start
The fight began with both fighters immediately looking to establish control in the opening moments. Yan came out aggressively, utilizing his crisp boxing and fast footwork to press Figueiredo.
The Russian fighter mixed up his striking well, landing powerful jabs and hooks while keeping Figueiredo at bay. Figueiredo, known for his explosiveness and knockout power, looked to close the distance and land heavy strikes, but Yan’s movement and defense were on point in the early going.
Both fighters exchanged heavy strikes throughout the round, but it was Yan who seemed to get the better of the exchanges, showcasing his superior technical boxing and crisp combinations.
Figueiredo did manage to land a few hard punches of his own, but his lack of accuracy compared to Yan’s precision left him at a disadvantage. The first round was a close one, but Yan appeared to have edged it with his cleaner striking and control of the pace.
Round 2: Figueiredo’s Pressure Builds
As the second round began, Figueiredo came out with more urgency, applying pressure to Yan and looking for openings. The Brazilian fighter landed some solid shots, including a few powerful kicks that appeared to shake Yan a bit. However, Yan remained composed, utilizing his footwork and striking accuracy to keep Figueiredo at range.
Midway through the round, Figueiredo seemed to find his rhythm, landing a few clean hooks and body shots that visibly affected Yan.
The former flyweight champion’s power was beginning to show, and he looked to use it to break down Yan’s defense. Despite this, Yan stayed calm and countered effectively, making sure to land his shots and avoid prolonged exchanges in close quarters.
The action intensified as both fighters showed their resilience and determination. Figueiredo’s power was evident, but Yan’s precision and ability to avoid damage kept him in control for the most part.
It was clear that Figueiredo was pushing the pace, but Yan was still dictating the fight in terms of clean striking and technical defense.
Round 3: A Close Contest and Momentum Shift
As the fight entered the third round, it was becoming evident that this battle could go either way. Both men were showing signs of fatigue, but neither seemed willing to back down.
Yan’s cardio and striking appeared to be holding up well, but Figueiredo’s power punches continued to land with force.
In the opening minutes, Figueiredo managed to press Yan against the cage and deliver a series of heavy shots, but the Russian fighter showed excellent defensive skills, avoiding the worst of the damage.
In the middle of the round, Yan took control again, landing a clean combination that stunned Figueiredo. The momentum seemed to shift as Yan landed multiple shots while keeping Figueiredo at a distance.
Despite Figueiredo’s best efforts to close the gap and land a knockout blow, Yan’s technique and poise allowed him to continue dictating the fight.
It became evident that Figueiredo was struggling to land clean, powerful strikes consistently, while Yan’s sharper punches and defensive movements were making the difference.
Round 4: The Final Push
Entering the fourth round, both fighters were fatigued, but they were still showing the heart and grit needed to finish strong.
Yan was still using his superior technique, landing crisp combinations and keeping Figueiredo on the defensive. Figueiredo, on the other hand, seemed to be searching for one final burst of power to end the fight.
With each passing minute, Yan’s control over the pace of the fight became more apparent. Figueiredo’s attacks were slowing down, and his power punches were coming less frequently.
Yan remained patient, avoiding the Brazilian’s more dangerous shots while continuing to score with his precise strikes.
As the round came to a close, it was clear that Yan was ahead on points. Figueiredo had landed some heavy blows, but Yan’s superior technique, movement, and defensive skills had put him in the driver’s seat.
Both fighters were exhausted, but Yan had proven to be the more consistent and composed fighter throughout the contest.
Round 5: The Final Bell
With the final round upon them, both fighters pushed for a decisive finish, knowing that a victory was within their grasp. Figueiredo attempted to press forward with all his might, looking to land a knockout blow to salvage the fight.
However, Yan’s composure and ability to manage distance continued to shine through. The final moments of the fight saw Yan landing several clean shots while Figueiredo, though still dangerous, was unable to find his rhythm.
As the final bell rang, both fighters raised their hands, knowing they had left everything in the Octagon. It was a hard-fought battle, with Yan’s technical skills ultimately prevailing over Figueiredo’s power. The judges’ scorecards were read, and the decision was unanimous in favor of Petr Yan.
Yan’s Redemption and What’s Next
Petr Yan’s victory over Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC Macau was a significant moment in his career. After losing his bantamweight title, Yan had been on a quest to prove himself once again as one of the top fighters in the division. This win over a former flyweight champion was a statement that Yan is back on track for a potential title shot.
For Figueiredo, it was a tough loss, but the Brazilian fighter showed tremendous heart throughout the fight. While he wasn’t able to secure the win, Figueiredo’s power and pressure were evident, and he remains a dangerous competitor in the division.
As for Yan, the victory sets him up for a bright future in the bantamweight division, where he could be on the cusp of challenging for the title again. UFC fans are excited to see what’s next for these two talented fighters, who continue to push the limits of MMA.