Joseph Benavidez expects exciting title fight against Deiveson Figueiredo

J. Benavidez in victory for the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @joejitsu

Experienced in MMA and at a great stage in his career, the North American Joseph Benavidez is close to trying, for the third time, to achieve his dream of becoming UFC flyweight champion (up to 56,7kg). With a scheduled fight against Deiveson Figueiredo for February 29th, at UFC Norfolk, the athlete expects a difficult fight against the Brazilian, however, he is counting on victory over the Pará native. In an interview with 'Combate', Benavidez spoke about his expectations for the dispute.

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“(It will be) an exciting fight. It's going to be a tough fight against a tough opponent. At this point in my career, all that matters is winning every second. Now, I'm getting ready. I see millions of paths in my head, but the only path I have to make happen tonight is me winning and winning the belt”, said the American.

The duel between Joseph and Deiveson was confirmed after Ultimate dismissed Henry Cejudo. Champion in two divisions for the company, the North American needs to give up one of his titles to avoid 'locking down' the categories.

Many expected Cejudo to face Benavidez, as one of the two 'Triple C' defeats happened precisely in a duel against Joseph, in a duel held in December 2016. Henry, however, chose to continue his reign in the bantamweight division (until 61,2kg.), where he believes he will have more opportunities to hold big matches.

Seeing the current champion give up the belt doesn't frustrate Benavidez's plans to add another victory over his former opponent. On the contrary. Joseph states that the confrontation could still happen if Cejudo is unsuccessful in his first title defense, which should take place in 2020.

“He is the bantamweight champion, but the thing is that in the flyweight division I had already beaten him. I wanted the chance to fight for the belt, and he left the category. I beat Cejudo, and he chose not to try to avenge his defeat. The only way I can see this (again against Henry) happening, and it's the most likely, is if he loses the bantamweight belt. If he no longer has the title, if he loses the bantamweight belt, he wants to come back and he wants to be my first title defense, we can do that”, he concluded.