Deiveson Figueiredo takes umbrage with Joe Rogan questioning status as UFC flyweight champ
DALLAS – UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo might have a bone to pick with Joe Rogan.
During the UFC 277 broadcast on Saturday, Rogan, who called the fights cageside, discredited Figueiredo as the legit 125-pound champion in anticipation of the night’s interim title fight between Brandon Moreno and Kai Kara-France.
“This is the real world title fight,” Rogan said. “I don’t think we’re ever going to see DF down at 125 again, and I think those two gentlemen, there’s a real good argument that Moreno won that last fight, as well. So that is, in my opinion, that’s the world title fight right there.”
Prior to the co-main event, Figueiredo was informed of Rogan’s words during a session with reporters backstage at American Airlines Center. He squinted and smiled before responding.
“I’m gonna have to step into the octagon, go into the arena and look for Joe Rogan’s crystal ball,” Figueiredo said.
“I want to show it to him. Maybe it could be a little friendly wager. I’m gonna make weight, and I’m gonna show it to him. I’m gonna just basically tell him what’s up, what’s really going to happen.”
It’s unclear if Figueiredo got the chance to address Rogan directly.
Moreno went on to defeat Kara-France by third-round TKO when a hard body kick put the finish in motion. Afterward, Figueiredo entered the cage to confront Moreno, and the two men agreed to fight for a fourth time in December.
Whether it will happen on that timeline remains to be seen as Figueiredo recovers from a hand injury.
“At home, it was hurting a little bit. I have to tell you,” Figueiredo said. “I was doing a lot of exercises at home for the hand, just kind of doing stuff and really working the hand as much as possible. I think I’m gonna be ready to go. And believe me, I do believe that I have a lot to give in the octagon still for you guys.”
Figueiredo is certain he’s coming back to 125 pounds, even if Rogan has his doubts.