Figueiredo Defends UFC 332 Card From Critics

Deiveson Figueiredo is pushing back against criticism of the UFC 332 card, which has drawn sharp fan reaction since the promotion announced the October event.

The former flyweight champion co-headlines the Salt Lake City show opposite rising bantamweight Payton Talbott, competing on a numbered card despite a rough 1-4 stretch that includes back-to-back losses to Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong. The main event features Natalia Silva and Wang Cong for a vacant flyweight belt, with the title on the line after Valentina Shevchenko pulled out injured.

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Figueiredo On His Co-Main Spot And Talbott Matchup

Figueiredo told MMA Fighting the online backlash has been frustrating. "About the criticism, it's a little annoying," he said. "But I'm sure that all the fighters the UFC put on the card are ready to have a great fight, you know? And what looks weak can become strong."

The Brazilian acknowledged he did not anticipate landing in a co-main event slot after two consecutive defeats, but said roster shuffling pushed him up the card. He has been training in Thailand and arrived early in Utah to adjust to the altitude before the Oct. 3 date at the Delta Center.

🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 332 on Ticketmaster →

Figueiredo sees Talbott as a strong striker but believes his own aggression and knockout power will carry the night. He also voiced support for Silva to capture Brazil's next UFC title in the headliner.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Deiveson Figueiredo defends UFC 332 card from criticism: ‘It’s a little annoying’