UFC Macau: Former Champions Yan and Figueiredo Clash in High-Stakes Bout

In the early hours of Saturday, November 23, 2024, mixed martial arts enthusiasts will witness a significant UFC event as the organization returns to Macau, often dubbed the «Las Vegas of the East.» This event, featured on ESPN+, will be a critical moment in the UFC’s strategic expansion into the Asian market, marking the promotion’s first return to the region since 2014.

The main event pits two former champions, Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo, against each other in a crucial bantamweight bout. Yan, once a bantamweight champion, is aiming to end his previous losing streak, which was interrupted by a March victory over Song Yadong. This victory also coincides with Yan’s recent re-signing with the UFC, a move that could mark another pursuit of the title. «Petr’s decision to stay with the UFC shows his unyielding commitment to reclaiming his top spot,» a UFC spokesperson stated.

Deiveson Figueiredo, previously a champion in the flyweight division, has shown commendable skill since moving up to bantamweight. Undefeated at this higher weight class, Figueiredo’s aggressive style has resulted in notable wins, including decisions over Rob Font and former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt. «Figueiredo has adapted well to the bantamweight demands, using his experience and skills to overcome larger adversaries,» said an analyst from ESPN.

The bout promises to be a tactical spectacle, representing a potential path to a title shot or a significant title eliminator bout for the victor. It comes at a time when the bantamweight division is witnessing an uncertain landscape, with current champion Merab Dvalishvili recovering from his latest bout and not planning an immediate return.

In the co-main event, Xiaonan Yan, previously a title challenger in the women’s strawweight division, will defend her ranking against up-and-coming Brazilian fighter Tabatha Ricci. Yan’s journey has been marked by fluctuating results, as her previous battle for the title against champion Weili Zhang ended in defeat. «Each fight is a new challenge, and I’m ready for it,» Yan expressed in a pre-fight interview.

Tabatha Ricci, at 29, is quickly rising in the ranks due to her impressive grappling skills and solid performance since transitioning to strawweight. «Ricci has shown that she’s ready for a breakthrough, and a win here might secure her position in the top tier,» commented UFC commentator Joe Rogan.

This event in Macau is not only a showcase of elite fighting prowess but also a testament to the UFC’s ongoing global expansion. As the fighters prepare to enter the octagon, fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating each match’s outcomes and implications for future title contensions.