UFC on ESPN+ 27: Deiveson Figueiredo aims to inspire children of Brazil by bringing home UFC title

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Deiveson Figueiredo isn’t lacking motivation entering UFC on ESPN+ 27.

Whether it be the words of his opponent, Joseph Benavidez, or the backing of his home country, Figueiredo (17-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) indicated he’s inspired ahead of Saturday’s headlining fight.

“Ever since I entered the organization, I thought I’d get a title shot,” Figueiredo told reporters, including MMA Junkie, through an interpreter at a media day held Thursday. “I was sure about that. I don’t play around when I get in the ring. The crowd really enjoys watching me fight, and once I’m in there, I don’t play around. I’m sure I’m ready. I’m going to get it this time.”

Figueiredo hasn’t taken lightly to recent comments made by Benavidez (28-5 MMA, 15-3 UFC). While Figueiredo didn’t elaborate on what specific comments bothered him most, he said he’ll be keeping Benavidez’s words in mind.

“I’m going to have no mercy on Saturday; I do have a problem with this guy,” Figueiredo said. “He was saying things about me without knowing anything about me. I’m very confident if he stands there, he’s going to strike. I’m going to rip his head off. If he grapples, I’m going to finish him. I’m very confident I’m going to win this fight on Saturday.”

A proud Brazilian, Figueiredo thinks he’s ready to bring title gold back to home country. While Amanda Nunes has successfully represented Brazil time and time again, the UFC has not had a male titleholder since Jose Aldo lost his belt in late 2017. Figueiredo hopes a title win will inspire the next generation of Brazilians.

“It would mean a lot for me,” Figueiredo said. “I’d be really happy to bring the title back. It would also mean a lot for the people in Brazil. It’s called by God: I’m going to get this title.

“I want to be an example for all the kids in Brazil. I also want to show I can be professional. You don’t have to talk a lot. All the kids in the world, I want to make sure they see it’s possible to make it. I’m ready for this title on Saturday.”

UFC on ESPN+ 27 takes place Saturday at Chartway Arena in Norfolk, Va. The card streams on ESPN+.

Check out Deiveson Figueiredo’s full UFC on ESPN+ 27 pre-fight media scrum in the video above.