Ali Akbar Rosady
MACAU – All 26 athletes scheduled to compete at Saturday’s UFC Macau event successfully made weight during the official early Friday morning weigh-ins, setting the stage for a highly anticipated fight card headlined by a pivotal bantamweight clash between China’s own Song Yadong and former two-time flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo. The meticulous process unfolded without incident, with every fighter hitting their respective targets, followed by intense face-offs that underscored the competitive spirit preceding the night of bouts.
The main event pits the No. 7-ranked bantamweight contender, Song Yadong, against the dangerous No. 9-ranked Deiveson Figueiredo in a non-title bantamweight bout, with both fighters demonstrating their professionalism by comfortably making the 136-pound limit. Song Yadong registered precisely 136 pounds, while Figueiredo also made weight, ensuring the headliner proceeds as planned. This contest carries significant implications for the crowded bantamweight division, as both men are vying to ascend the rankings and position themselves for future title contention.
Song Yadong, often referred to as "The Kung Fu Monkey," enters this bout with a professional record reflecting his potent striking ability and ever-improving all-around game. Hailing from China, Song has rapidly climbed the bantamweight ladder since his UFC debut, showcasing a blend of speed, power, and precision. His recent performances include notable victories over formidable opponents, demonstrating his capability to finish fights both by knockout and decision. A product of Team Alpha Male, Song’s development under the tutelage of Urijah Faber and his coaching staff has been evident in his technical growth and strategic approach to fights. His last outing saw him secure a dominant win, reaffirming his status as a top-tier contender. His striking, particularly his right hand and leg kicks, often dictates the pace of his contests, making him a challenging matchup for any opponent. At 26 years old, Song represents the new guard of the bantamweight division, combining youthful aggression with refined technique.
Facing Song is Deiveson Figueiredo, a fighter whose pedigree as a two-time UFC Flyweight Champion speaks volumes about his elite skill set. "Deus da Guerra" (God of War) transitioned to the bantamweight division after a storied career at flyweight, which included a historic tetralogy with Brandon Moreno. Figueiredo’s move up in weight has been marked by a renewed sense of vigor and power, allowing him to carry his formidable grappling and heavy hands against larger opponents. His professional record is punctuated by numerous finishes, showcasing his dangerous submission game and knockout power, a rare combination that makes him a threat in all phases of a fight. At 36, Figueiredo brings a wealth of championship experience to the cage, having navigated the pressures of title fights on multiple occasions. His grappling, particularly his ability to secure chokes from various positions, remains a potent weapon, complemented by a deceptively powerful striking arsenal. His recent performances at bantamweight have solidified his position within the top 10, indicating that his power and technique translate effectively to the new weight class. This fight against Song is crucial for Figueiredo to prove he is a legitimate threat to the bantamweight title, not just a former flyweight king.
Related News :
- Daniel Cormier Foresees Sean Strickland as Potentially Khamzat Chimaev’s Toughest Challenge Yet in UFC Middleweight Division
- UFC 328 Aftermath: Strickland Claims Middleweight Title, Immediate Rematch Uncertainties Emerge
- Champions League League Phase Concludes Amidst Mourinho-Inspired Drama and Intense Scrutiny on New Format
- Emmett Secures Gritty Decision Over Vallejos in Thrilling UFC Vegas 114 Main Event
- Paramount+ Poised for 2026 Price Increase Following Landmark UFC Broadcast Rights Acquisition
The stylistic matchup between Song Yadong and Deiveson Figueiredo promises an explosive encounter. Song’s precision striking and movement will be tested by Figueiredo’s relentless pressure, powerful counters, and opportunistic grappling. The fight is expected to be a clash of styles, with Song looking to maintain distance and land his impactful combinations, while Figueiredo will likely seek to close the distance, unleash his heavy punches, and potentially pursue takedowns to leverage his submission expertise. The outcome could significantly alter the trajectory of the bantamweight landscape, with the winner making a strong case for a future contender fight.
In the co-main event, a light heavyweight non-title bout will see China’s Zhang Mingyang square off against Alonzo Menifield. Both fighters successfully hit their marks, with Zhang Mingyang weighing in at 205 pounds and Alonzo Menifield at 206 pounds, well within the 206-pound non-title limit for the division.
Zhang Mingyang, known as "The Mountain Tiger," carries the hopes of the local crowd and aims to make a statement in the light heavyweight division. His professional record highlights a fighter with significant knockout power, particularly in the early rounds. Zhang has demonstrated an aggressive, forward-moving style, often overwhelming opponents with flurries of strikes. His recent performances have solidified his reputation as a formidable finisher, making him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. Fighting on home soil in Macau adds an extra layer of motivation for Zhang, who will be looking to capitalize on the energy of the crowd.
Alonzo Menifield, nicknamed "Atomic," brings a similar proclivity for powerful striking and finishes. With a professional record built on explosive knockouts, Menifield is a proven commodity in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. His athleticism and ability to generate immense power in his punches make him a constant threat. Menifield’s recent fights have seen him engage in exciting, high-paced exchanges, showcasing his durability and willingness to stand and trade. This co-main event promises to be a fireworks display, with both fighters possessing the ability to end the fight with a single blow. The winner will gain significant momentum in the light heavyweight rankings, pushing towards the division’s top contenders.
The main card, scheduled to broadcast on Paramount+ at 7 a.m. ET, features several other compelling matchups. Heavyweight titans Sergei Pavlovich (257 lbs) and Tallison Teixeira (250 lbs) are set for a collision that is unlikely to go the distance. Pavlovich, a top-ranked heavyweight, is renowned for his devastating knockout power and aggressive style, having dispatched numerous opponents in the first round. His professional record reflects a fighter who rarely leaves it to the judges, making him one of the most feared strikers in the division. Teixeira, while less experienced at the elite level, has shown glimpses of power and resilience, and will be looking to make a name for himself against one of the division’s most dangerous men.
Further down the main card, Kai Asakura (135.5 lbs) meets Cameron Smotherman (135.5 lbs) in a bantamweight contest. Asakura, known for his dynamic striking and experience in various promotions, looks to make a strong impression in the UFC. Smotherman, a durable and gritty fighter, will aim to counter Asakura’s offensive prowess with his own well-rounded skillset. The welterweight division will also be represented as Jake Matthews (170 lbs) takes on Carlston Harris (170.5 lbs). Both fighters are seasoned veterans with comprehensive skill sets, promising a strategic and competitive bout. Matthews, known for his strong grappling and improving striking, will face Harris, a powerful and athletic fighter with a knack for finishes. Finally, Alex Perez (125.5 lbs) and Sumudaerji (126 lbs) will clash in a flyweight bout. Perez, a former title challenger, brings a high-volume striking attack and strong wrestling, while Sumudaerji, with his unique striking style and reach, presents a difficult puzzle to solve.
The preliminary card, kicking off on Paramount+ at 4 a.m. ET, offers a deep roster of talent and potential breakout performances. Yi Sak Lee (185 lbs) faces Luis Felipe Dias (184.5 lbs) in a middleweight bout, with both athletes looking to establish themselves. Ding Meng (170.5 lbs) and Jose Souza (170.5 lbs) are slated for a welterweight contest, promising an evenly matched battle. In the bantamweight division, Aoriqileng (135 lbs), known for his aggressive style, will challenge Cody Haddon (135 lbs), while Rei Tsuruya (135 lbs) takes on Luis Gurule (135 lbs) in another bantamweight clash.
The women’s divisions are also well-represented. Strawweight veteran Angela Hill (115 lbs), known for her relentless pace and striking volume, will face Xiong Jing Nan (115.5 lbs), a powerful and decorated striker. This matchup is expected to be a stand-up war, with both fighters preferring to exchange blows. Featherweights Zhu Kangjie (145 lbs) and Rodrigo Vera (145 lbs) are set to compete in a bout that will test their striking and grappling prowess. The preliminary card concludes with a strawweight battle between Loma Lookboonmee (115 lbs), a decorated Muay Thai practitioner, and Jaqueline Amorim (115.5 lbs), a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. This promises to be a classic striker-versus-grappler affair, with both fighters aiming to impose their will.
With all fighters successfully making weight and the ceremonial face-offs concluding, the stage is now fully set for UFC Macau. The event promises a night of high-stakes action, featuring a blend of established contenders and rising stars eager to leave their mark on the global stage.
💬 Tinggalkan Komentar dengan Facebook
Author Profile
Latest entries
MMAMay 29, 2026UFC Macau Weigh-Ins Conclude: Song Yadong and Deiveson Figueiredo Cleared for Bantamweight Headliner
MMAMay 29, 2026UFC 326: Holloway and Oliveira Set for ‘BMF’ Title Rematch in Las Vegas Showdown; Expert Picks Unveiled
MMAMay 29, 2026UFC Oklahoma City Bolsters Card with High-Stakes Middleweight and Welterweight Showdowns
MMAMay 28, 2026Veteran Welterweight Max Griffin Confirms UFC Release Following Third Consecutive Defeat.
rifan muazin
Anshari Taslim
Jonas Leo