Figueiredo’s Manager Open For A Benavidez Rematch

By FIGHTSPORTS Mar 2, 2020

The uncrowned king of the flyweights is waiting for his title to be put around his waist. At UFC Norfolk this past weekend, Deiveson Figueiredo knocked out Joseph Benavidez in round two in a bout that would have determined the new Flyweight Champion.

The only problem? Figueiredo (18-1) didn’t make weight for the event, coming in 2.5 pounds over the flyweight limit. As a result, the title remained vacant since he was ineligible to win it. The world is hoping for a rematch for the two. Benavidez (28-6), who lost his third fight for the Flyweight Title, wants the fight as well. Wallid Ismail, Figueiredo’s manager, is very open to the rematch as well.

“Joseph Benavidez was a warrior for accepting to fight him one kilo overweight and deserves the rematch,” Ismail stated 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.

“We just wanna know when Benavidez wants to fight. But, please, don’t take too long.”

This was the first time Figueiredo missed weight in his career. He was met with ridicule by almost all viewers who watched the fight, fighters included. He is now on a three-fight win streak.

Depending on how long it takes Benavidez to heal from the cut above his eye, this could take place sooner than we think. International Fight Week for the UFC culminates with a July 11 card, with several big matches planned. Ismail has an idea that could help both fighters get the exposure they need.

“We suggest the same July card where Paulo Costa will fight for the belt against the winner of (Israel) Adesanya and (Yoel) Romero,” Ismail went on to say.

The only fighters with a case other than Benavidez and Figueiredo is number two ranked Jussier Formiga and Alexandre Pantoja, ranked fourth in the UFC rankings. Henry Cejudo, the UFC Bantamweight Champion, relinquished the belt he won from Demetrious Johnson back at UFC 227. He has since stated he is still the real champion following UFC Norfolk.