Deiveson Figueiredo Claims He’d Put Away Demetrious Johnson

It remains to be seen if Demetrious Johnson ever steps into the Octagon again. But, according to the UFC’s new flyweight king, Deiveson Figueiredo, he’ll take out the renowned fighter if they throw hands.

Figueiredo claims he’d KO Johnson with “a lot of pride”

The 32-year-old Figueiredo secured the UFC’s flyweight title in jaw-dropping fashion at UFC Fight Island 2, by choking out Joseph Benavidez in the first round. Figueiredo dropped the rugged veteran several times in the opening round, and then finished the fight with a rear-naked-choke.

It marked the second time Figueiredo has defeated the perennial contender. In February, Figueiredo finished Benavidez in round two. But, because he missed weight for that bout, and due to an accidental headbutt that occurred, a rematch was booked.

Well, although the rising Brazilians star is just beginning his reign, afterward, Figueiredo relayed he has other, lofty goals (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“Now that I have the belt, I have to train very hard,” Figueiredo said. “I’m the guy that everyone wants to beat, so I’m the guy everyone is looking at.

I’m a guy who doesn’t give up ever, so I had to overcome all those hurdles to get here. It was something I had to do.

“I will accept a superfight if they want to give me one. I’ll move up to 135. I want to be a two-division champion but I’m going to defend this belt as well.”

Since Figueiredo certainly isn’t small for the 125 pound division, and because he hits like a truck, it would be interesting to see him at bantamweight. First things first, however, and that’s defending the flyweight.

And while talking about superfights, Figueiredo was also asked about he thinks he’d do against one of the all-time greats, in Johnson.

“That’s definitely a fight that all the fans would want to see – me against Demetrious Johnson,” Figueiredo said.

“If the UFC wants to bring him back, I’m going to be very happy. I’m going to knock him out and with a lot of pride. I’m very happy to do that.”

Thoughts?

As it stands right now, it’s hard to imagine Johnson returning to the UFC. ‘Mighty Mouse’ seems pretty happy competing for ONE Championship, and it would be surprising if the UFC even looked to bring him back. After all, Johnson wanted to leave.

All that aside, would Figueiredo put away Johnson? He might. But, in Johnson he would be facing one of the most complete and explosive fighters the game has seen. A fighter who has great wrestling and a dangerous top game.

Figueiredo has been extremely impressive in his recent outings. But he’s not long removed from a decision loss to Jussier ‘Formiga’, who leaned on his takedowns and grappling to beat the dangerous flyweight.