Figueiredo brushes off UFC 332 criticism ahead of must-win clash with Talbott

Deiveson Figueiredo has defended the UFC 332 card against a wave of fan and pundit criticism, telling MMA Fighting the backlash is “a little annoying” and predicting the October 3 event in Salt Lake City will exceed low expectations.

The numbered card at the Delta Center is headlined by Natalia Silva and Wang Cong fighting for the vacant women’s flyweight title — a belt made available after champion Valentina Shevchenko was ruled out through injury. Figueiredo co-headlines against unbeaten prospect Payton Talbott, with the former flyweight king attempting to arrest a run of four losses in five fights, including back-to-back defeats to Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong.

“About the criticism, it’s a little annoying,” Figueiredo said. “But I’m sure that all the fighters the UFC put on the card are ready to have a great fight. And what looks weak can become strong. I’m sure — especially me, man, I’m ready to have a great fight.”

Figueiredo acknowledged he did not anticipate landing a co-main event slot given his recent form, but credited the UFC for continuing to value his name and track record. “I admit that I didn’t expect it, but there were some complications on the card, and I moved up to do the co-main event,” he said. “I’m happy, man. Once again I see the UFC valuing me, giving me great fights, great cards.”

The Brazilian has already arrived in Salt Lake City to complete his camp and acclimatise to the high altitude, having done the bulk of his preparation in Thailand. He is confident his experience gives him an edge over Talbott despite the prospect’s momentum.

“He has excellence in striking,” Figueiredo said of his opponent. “But I see myself as a guy with more excellence. If I fight at my level, aggressively, I’m sure I’m going to go right at him, and with great chances of knocking him out. But I can also do the grappling style. I’m a guy who trains all areas, so anything can happen in this fight.”

The main card also features King Green vs. Esteban Ribovics, Khaos Williams vs. Roberto Soldic, and Ateba Gautier vs. Roman Kopylov.

Figueiredo rounded out his pre-fight media with a show of support for compatriot Silva, who fights for the flyweight title in the main event. “I’m sending energy to Natalia so that she can achieve this in her life,” he said. “Having the belt is really good, man. It changes many things in your life, and I want her to be champion.”