Kai Kara-France counters Deiveson Figueiredo's provocation about interim belt: 'It's still a world title'

K. Kara-France at the press conference before the UFC 277 (Photo: Reproduction/Youtube)

Linear flyweight champion (up to 56,7kg), Deiveson Figueiredo harshly criticized Ultimate for marrying the duel between Brandon Moreno e Kai Kara France, earning the interim belt. On the 'media day' of UFC 277, which will take place next Saturday (30), the New Zealander said he was not worried about the Brazilian fighter's opinion and stated that, even though it is 'temporary', the fight against the Mexican will still be valid for the world title.

READ MORE: Angry, Deiveson Figueiredo criticizes UFC for interim title fight in flyweight: 'Plastic belt

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“Yes, I saw (Deiveson) Figueiredo saying it’s a cardboard belt, a plastic belt, but it’s still a world title and I have to respect that.” I worked for it. He is not here. I’m here against Brandon (Moreno) and we’ll fight again, so I’m excited,” he said. Kai Kara France.

Defeated by Brandon Moreno in 2019, the New Zealander believes that the result of the fight will be different this time and explained the reasons that lead him to believe in a new panorama after the UFC 277.

“This fight is a rematch that I really wanted. It's all about timing. The Kai who fought Brandon in 2019 is not the same Kai he will be fighting this Saturday. Just completely different. In that space of time I became a father, a husband and went through more experiences and just leveling up everywhere. I think self-belief is the difference. Before, I didn't believe it. I really believe I'm going to be a world champion”, concluded the New Zealander.

Number two in the flyweight rankings, Kara-France is enjoying a good moment in the organization and has been enjoying three consecutive victories in the company. At 29 years old, the New Zealander has a record of 24 triumphs, nine setbacks and one no-contest (fight without result) in his professional career.