Jussier Formiga says it’s impossible he doesn’t get next title shot with win at UFC Nashville
Jussier Formiga like many flyweights are wondering what is in store for their division. Although they are still getting fights, questions on if Henry Cejudo will move up in weight to fight for a bantamweight title. However, Formiga is set to take on Deiveson Figueiredo in what very well may be a number one contender fight. With that, Formiga knows the time is now to capitalize on the opportunity.
“I’ve been in the UFC since 2012,” Formiga told MMA Junkie in his native Portuguese. “It’s been almost seven years of facing the best-ranked fighters, including the current champion, Henry Cejudo. I had some important wins and losses, such as the split-decision loss to Cejudo. It could have gone either way. It was a hard-fought battle. And there was the loss to Ray Borg in Brazil, which still doesn’t sit well with me. But it’s no use to cry over spilled milk. I’m in a great place in my career.
“I’ve been able to adjust some things. I’ve been able to evolve much, especially in regards to my striking. I’m feeling very confident going into my next bout.”
If Formiga does indeed win on Saturday he is confident he will be getting the next title shot against Cejudo.
“I’m not worried about the flyweight division possibly being abolished,” Formiga said. “The media made a lot of noise about that. Cejudo was just able to prove that he’s a great flyweight by defeating T.J. Dillashaw, who’s one of the UFC’s top fighters, pound-for-pound. After beating Deiveson, I’ll be on a four-fight winning streak. There’s nothing else to do after that, other than waiting for Cejudo. It’s impossible that I wouldn’t be next.
“Deiveson is an excellent opponent, who’s undefeated, but he’s pretty new in the UFC, and I’m not about to let him take my spot. I respect him, a fellow Brazilian, but I’m more deserving of the next title shot. This is my moment.”
