Ali Akbar Rosady
Macau, China – In a pivotal bantamweight clash that headlined UFC Macau, China’s own Song Yadong secured a dramatic second-round submission victory over former two-time flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo. The "Kung Fu Kid" executed a surprise guillotine choke at 4 minutes and 42 seconds of the second round, marking a significant moment in his career and for the event, which represented the UFC’s return to Chinese soil for the first time since 2018.
The victory, Song’s second career submission in the UFC, could not have arrived at a more opportune juncture, solidifying his position within the competitive bantamweight division following a recent setback. Fighting in his home country for the first time in six years, the pressure and expectation on the 28-year-old were palpable, yet he delivered a performance that ultimately captivated the local audience at the Cotai Arena.
The Bout Unfolds: A Tactical Opening
Entering the main event, Song Yadong (23-8-1, 1 NC) was widely favored by oddsmakers, with his youth, physical advantages in size, and renowned striking prowess anticipated to pose significant challenges for the 38-year-old Figueiredo (25-7-1). However, the initial five minutes of the contest defied these pre-fight narratives, characterized by a cautious and tactical approach from both combatants rather than the high-octane striking exchanges many expected.
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Round one saw a tentative start, with both fighters gauging distance and employing feints. Song, typically a fast starter, appeared measured, perhaps feeling the weight of the main event spotlight and the homecoming atmosphere. Striking volume remained notably low through the opening minutes. The most significant moment of the round occurred when Song, attempting a dynamic kick, slipped on the canvas. Figueiredo, ever the opportunist, swiftly capitalized on the misstep, securing a takedown and ending the round in a dominant top position. While he did not inflict significant damage, Figueiredo maintained control for the remainder of the frame, likely earning him the round on the judges’ scorecards and injecting an unexpected layer of doubt into the pre-fight favoritism. This early setback underscored the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts and highlighted Figueiredo’s veteran instincts.
Second Round Shift and the Surprise Finish
As the second round commenced, Song Yadong appeared to make strategic adjustments, demonstrating increased urgency in his striking and movement. He began to find his rhythm on the feet, connecting with several clean strikes and seemingly building momentum. Figueiredo, known for his relentless pressure and potent grappling, continued to search for openings, attempting to close the distance and re-establish his ground game.
The pivotal sequence unfolded in the dying moments of the second round. Figueiredo initiated a late takedown attempt, shooting in on Song’s legs. However, Song displayed significantly improved defensive grappling and spatial awareness. Rather than being taken down, he expertly defended the attempt, quickly reversing the position and snatching Figueiredo’s neck in the process. With a swift transition, Song secured a deep guillotine choke. The speed and precision with which Song locked in the submission caught Figueiredo entirely by surprise. "Deus da Guerra," a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt known for his own formidable grappling, found himself trapped, unable to escape the vice-like grip. After a brief struggle, the former champion was forced to tap, signaling the end of the contest at 4 minutes and 42 seconds of the second round. The suddenness of the finish, particularly after the slow start and Figueiredo’s earlier control, sent a jolt of excitement through the Macau arena.
A History of Submissions and Grappling Evolution
This victory marked Song Yadong’s second submission win in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, with his first also being a guillotine choke against Bharat Khandare during his UFC debut in November 2017. While primarily recognized for his explosive striking and knockout power, this performance highlighted the continuous evolution of his grappling repertoire. Post-fight, Song credited the improvements in his ground game to his training environment and coaching staff. "I credit Team Alpha Male head coach Urijah Faber and the rest of my team for sharpening my grappling skills," Song stated, acknowledging the renowned Sacramento-based gym’s influence on his all-around development. Faber’s team has a long-standing reputation for developing well-rounded fighters, and Song’s performance in Macau served as a testament to their work.
When probed about his preferred next opponent, Song Yadong’s response was direct and unreserved, embodying the fighter’s mentality. "I don’t give a f*ck, I take whatever you guys give me," he declared with conviction, adding, "Let’s go!" This aggressive stance underscores his readiness to face any challenge as he continues his ascent in the bantamweight division.
Contextualizing the Fighters’ Trajectories
Song Yadong, currently ranked No. 7 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings for bantamweights, entered UFC Macau looking to rebound from a decision loss to former champion Sean O’Malley at UFC 324. While a victory over a veteran like Figueiredo, particularly one who has faced recent challenges, might not drastically alter his immediate ranking, it is crucial for maintaining his momentum and credibility within the top tier of the division. The 28-year-old now boasts an impressive resume, including victories over former UFC champions Henry Cejudo and Deiveson Figueiredo, as well as former World Series of Fighting champion Marlon Moraes. These wins against high-profile opponents underscore his legitimacy as a title contender in the making. His youth, combined with his continuous skill development, positions him as a significant force in the coming years.
For Deiveson Figueiredo, the outcome of this main event carries significant weight. The former two-time UFC flyweight champion, known for his "God of War" persona and exciting fights, moved up to the bantamweight division in 2023 after a storied career at 125 pounds, which included iconic rivalries with Brandon Moreno. His transition to 135 pounds initially showed promise, but this loss marks his fourth defeat in his last five fights within the bantamweight division. Figueiredo’s recent struggles at the heavier weight class, coupled with his advancing age, raise questions about his future prospects. His championship aspirations, which once burned brightly, now appear to be hanging by a thread, and significant introspection may be required regarding his weight class and overall career trajectory.
The UFC Macau main event, featuring a dramatic and unexpected finish, not only delivered an exciting conclusion to the fight card but also offered a clear snapshot of the evolving landscape within the bantamweight division. Song Yadong’s coming-of-age performance reinforces his status as a legitimate threat, while for Deiveson Figueiredo, it signals a critical juncture in a career already etched in the annals of UFC history.
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