MMA Preview – Deiveson Figueiredo vs Brandon Moreno at UFC 256
DEIVESON FIGUEIREDO VS BRANDON MORENO FACTS
When is UFC 256? Sunday 13th December, 2020 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC 256? UFC APEX, Las Vegas, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 256? No tickets are available as this event will take place without spectators
What channel is UFC 256 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC 256? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
DEIVESON FIGUEIREDO VS BRANDON MORENO LOWDOWN
With the help of some young raw talent, Deiveson Figueiredo (20-1) has put the flyweight division back on the map. He wrecked one of the best 125ers of all time, Joseph Benavidez twice and made his first title defence only three weeks ago at UFC 255 where he also wrecked Alex Perez. Perez filled in for Cody Garbrandt and got submitted by the finishing machine who now ties flyweight ‘GOAT’ Demetrious Johnson for the most finishes in the division with seven.
Brandon Moreno (18-5-1) lost his opponent Perez at UFC 255 but he still got to fight Brandon Royval and vowed to make a statement after getting overlooked. Royval is one of the hottest prospects in the division and unfortunately dislocated his shoulder leading to a TKO win for Moreno but the Mexican looked exceptional. He looked at his thuggish and had the confidence to go toe-to-toe with the submission wizard on the mat and looked more dangerous. Now unbeaten in five, he gets his deserved title shot.
DEIVESON FIGUEIREDO VS BRANDON MORENO PREDICTION
It’s great to see both fighters make a quick turnaround. We know they are in great shape, full of confidence and stylistically, this is a fascinating match-up.
Figueiredo has looked dominant on his five-fight win streak and has showcased his unique finishing ability in his biggest fights but Moreno has all the physical and mental tools to give the Brazilian his toughest fight.
Moreno has a slight height and reach advantage and has never been finished in his career. He is extremely durable and will make it a scrap on the feet and as long as he avoids Figueiredo’s power shots, he has the skill on the floor to hang with the Brazilian.
Moreno’s route to victory is weathering the first two rounds and testing Figueiredo’s gas tank as he has never gone past the third round. The champion is just a level above in every area apart from stamina and if the fight goes into the championship rounds, you have to back Moreno who will finish stronger.
So, if the fight goes to the bell, Moreno can easily earn the decision to pull off the upset but surviving the early rounds against someone of Figueiredo’s finishing ability is easier said than done. Both men are in their prime and a Moreno decision or even a late submission is possible if Figueiredo gases out, but we back him for another finish.
Prediction: Figueiredo via KO/TKO
