Deiveson Figueiredo open to possible Joseph Benavidez rematch according to manager
Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Joseph Benavidez 2 might be happening sooner than most expected.
In the main event of UFC Norfolk this past weekend Figueiredo and Benavidez were set to fight for the vacant flyweight title. Yet that did not happen. On Friday, the Brazilian missed weight leaving Benavidez as the only person who could win the belt. But, the worst-case scenario happened as Figueiredo knocked out the American in the second round. So, the belt is still vacant.
Now, following the event, many thought Figueiredo should fight the winner of Brandon Moreno vs. Jussier Formiga for the vacant title. Yet, that may not happen after all as it appears the UFC is interested in running back Figueiredo vs. Benavidez.
“Joseph Benavidez was a warrior for accepting to fight him one kilo overweight and deserves the rematch,” Figueiredo’s manager Wallid Ismail said to MMA Fighting. “We like the guy, but on fight week it’s war, man. Since the UFC isn’t satisfied and wants another fight, it’s all good, the war continues.”
Ismail said he spoke to the UFC following Deiveson Figueiredo’s win and they made it clear they want to book a rematch. For them, they have no problem with it but hope Benavidez isn’t on the sidelines for too long.
“We just wanna know when Benavidez wants to fight,” Ismail said. “But, please, don’t take too long.”
When the scrap would happen is unknown at this time. But, the manager has an idea for it to take place in July when his other client, Paulo Costa fights for the middleweight title.
“We suggest the same July card where Paulo Costa will fight for the belt against the winner of [Israel] Adesanya and [Yoel] Romero,” Ismail said.
For now, Deiveson Figueiredo says he is the flyweight champion. He also adamant he will not miss weight when he gets the opportunity next.
