Umar Nurmagomedov will face former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo in a pivotal bantamweight conflict at UFC 324 on January 24, 2026, in a matchup that would decide the subsequent contender within the UFC’s stacked 135-pound division. The bout pits the #1 ranked Nurmagomedov in opposition to the seasoned Brazilian in what guarantees to be a compelling type conflict between two fighters at vital profession junctures.
Bounce Again Alternative for Nurmagomedov
Umar Nurmagomedov faces his first main check since struggling the primary defeat of his skilled profession in opposition to Merab Dvalishvili. Regardless of the setback, the Dagestani fighter maintains his #1 rating within the bantamweight division and now seeks to reaffirm his standing as a real title menace. His dominant wrestling and enhancing hanging make him a formidable problem for any opponent within the division.
This matchup represents extra than simply one other struggle for Nurmagomedov – it’s a possibility to show his loss was merely a short lived stumble slightly than a mirrored image of his true capabilities. A convincing victory in opposition to a longtime identify like Figueiredo would instantly reposition him for an additional championship alternative within the crowded bantamweight panorama.
Figueiredo’s Bantamweight Resurgence
Deiveson Figueiredo continues his marketing campaign within the bantamweight division following his cut up resolution victory over Montel Jackson, which halted a two-fight shedding skid. The previous flyweight champion has proven flashes of his harmful energy at 135 kilos, although questions stay about his consistency in opposition to the division’s elite wrestlers.
For Figueiredo, this struggle represents an opportunity to leapfrog a number of contenders and place himself for a shock title shot. His expertise in championship fights and confirmed knockout energy make him a harmful opponent for any bantamweight, significantly in opposition to fighters who might underestimate his adaptability following his transfer up from flyweight.
Stylistic Matchup Evaluation
The bout presents a traditional striker versus grappler dynamic, with Figueiredo’s explosive energy and unorthodox hanging contrasting sharply with Nurmagomedov’s methodical wrestling and stress. The important thing query revolves round whether or not Figueiredo can maintain the struggle standing lengthy sufficient to land his fight-ending energy photographs, or if Nurmagomedov can implement his grappling sport in opposition to the heavier, stronger model of the Brazilian.
Figueiredo’s takedown defence might be examined in opposition to one of many division’s most completed wrestlers, whereas Nurmagomedov should navigate the Brazilian’s harmful submission sport if he succeeds in taking the struggle to the mat. The result might hinge on who can extra successfully impose their most well-liked vary and preventing type.
Bantamweight Division Implications
This matchup carries vital implications for the UFC’s bantamweight hierarchy. The winner will probably place themselves for a title eliminator bout later in 2026, whereas the loser faces a doubtlessly prolonged climb again to competition in one of many organisation’s most talent-rich divisions.
With champion Sean O’Malley scheduled to compete on the identical card, the timing permits the promotion to doubtlessly arrange future championship matchups primarily based on performances. Each Nurmagomedov and Figueiredo have the chance to make a compelling case for title consideration with a powerful victory.
Incessantly Requested Questions
When is Umar Nurmagomedov vs Deiveson Figueiredo?
The bantamweight bout is scheduled for UFC 324 on January 24, 2026 at Las Vegas’s T-Cell Enviornment.
What are the stakes for this matchup?
The winner positions themselves for a possible title eliminator within the crowded bantamweight division, whereas the loser faces a big setback.
How has Nurmagomedov responded since his first profession loss?
He maintains his #1 rating and views this struggle as a possibility to show his loss was an anomaly slightly than a mirrored image of his true capacity.
What challenges does Figueiredo current?
The previous champion brings explosive energy, championship expertise, and an unorthodox hanging type that has troubled many opponents.
The place does this struggle rank on the UFC 324 card?
The bout options prominently on the primary card, serving as a key matchup beneath the interim light-weight title important occasion.
