F. Figueiredo won in his UFC debut. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Debuting on the right foot in one of the biggest MMA organizations in the world doesn't seem to have been enough to Francisco Figueredo. With champion DNA, Deiveson's younger brother took a lot of pressure after the triumph over Jerome Rivera No. UFC Fight Island 8 and promised a better performance in the next appointment. In an interview with 'Combate', the man from Pará spoke about the subject.
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“I want to show that I’m a different guy in this category. Today I wasn't able to show my game, but there's never been anyone with my style in this category. You’ll see soon”, said the athlete, who won with a unanimous decision from the judges.
Former champion of Jungle Fight, Figueiredo is in a hurry to separate his name from that of his brother, who currently holds the flyweight title (up to 56,7kg). Although he does not hide his admiration for the achievements of the 'God of War', Francisco seeks to 'walk on his own two feet' in Ultimate.
“I want to show work and be known as Francisco Figueredo, not as 'brother of Deiveson Figueiredo'. I came here to show who I really am, and I will show the people that I am a great champion. I'm not here just because he's my brother, I'm here because I deserve to be here. I was champion of a big event in Latin America, so I deserve to be here in the UFC”, he declared.
Willing to reach the top of the category led by his brother, Francisco knows that it is necessary to be patient so as not to rush the adaptation process in the category. The athlete, however, wants to stay active to get closer to replacing Deiveson, who recently stated his desire to move permanently to bantamweight (up to 61,2kg.).
“I still can't ask for a top 10. I believe I still have a lot to improve. It wasn't even my 50% today, I have a lot to show in this category. It was my first time fighting at 57kg, I always fought at 61kg (bantamweight), I had never beaten 57kg, I believe it was a worthwhile experience. It was a war today, but I promise to come back much better next time. (…) I want to do one fight after another. As soon as they call me, I'll be ready. (…) I want to make history like my brother did”, he concluded.
At 31 years old, Francisco has 17 commitments as a professional in MMA. So far, the fighter has 12 wins, three losses, one draw and one unsuccessful fight.
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