Benavidez-Figueiredo Flyweight Title Rematch Reportedly Set For July

In an attempt to keep the flyweight division alive, the UFC will be once again looking to crown a new champion. The hope is that the fighters involved get it right the second time around.

MMA Junkie is reporting that Joseph Benavidez and Deiveson Figueiredo will compete in a rematch on July 18 for the vacant UFC Flyweight Title.

Back in February in Virginia, Benavidez (28-6) and Figueiredo (18-1) were chosen as the flyweight contenders. Henry Cejudo relinquished the title to focus on his UFC Bantamweight Title. Everything appeared to go according to plan until Figueiredo entered the fight 2.5 pounds over the flyweight limit. The contest was still on, but he could not win the title if he beat Benavidez.

The first round started off hot right away, with Benavidez angry at Figueiredo. The former avoided an armbar finish and was able to make it to the second round. Following a clash of the heads, Figueiredo landed a right hand that knocked Benavidez down. A few shots later and the referee called the fight off, giving Figueiredo the win, but leaving the title vacant. Following the fight, Dana White stated that a rematch may very well take place, and Figueiredo’s manager stated the same.

It was Benavidez’s third attempt at a title opportunity, this one more painful than the others. Both Figueiredo (#1) and Benavidez (#2) are ranked at the top of the UFC’s flyweight rankings.

There is currently no venue for the July 18 fight, but White has been looking into the UFC’s APEX Center as a destination for future fights.