Mixed Martial Arts is known for its diverse personalities and fighters with unique training approaches.
Jiri Prochazka, a former UFC light heavyweight champion, exemplifies this, with a recent video of his blindfolded training receiving fan criticism.
Deiveson Figueiredo is set to compete against Cory Sandhagen on May 3 in Des Moines, Iowa, aiming to recover from his previous loss to Petr Yan.
Sandhagen is intensifying his preparation to secure a title opportunity, as both fighters are prominent contenders in the 135-pound division, yet to face Merab Dvalishvili or Sean O’Malley.
Figueiredo shared a glimpse into his training camp as he prepares for his next main event, focusing on enhancing his head movement.
Fans React to Figueiredo`s Cone-Dodging Drill
Deiveson Figueiredo is recognized for his exciting fighting style, especially in the lighter weight classes of the UFC.
The former UFC flyweight champion is known for his significant hand power and aggressive approach, often pursuing opponents to land impactful strikes.
However, his style can expose him to counter attacks because Figueiredo tends to keep his hands low, relying on his reflexes for defense.
In a video posted on Instagram, Figueiredo, known as ‘Deus Da Guerra’, is seen practicing head movement by dodging cones thrown at him from off-camera.
This training method is certainly unusual but could be beneficial for a fighter who depends on sharp vision and quick reactions during fights.
However, in the initial moments of the video, Figueiredo is hit on the head by a cone, manages to evade the next two, but is then struck directly in the face by the fourth.
One fan commented online, “10-9 Yellow disk,” while another questioned, “What is my goat doing?” Many responses also drew comparisons to a scene from the movie ‘Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story’, where characters dodge wrenches as part of their training.
Referencing the movie, a fan joked, “If he can dodge a wrench he can dodge a ball.”
Concerns Raised by Fans Regarding Figueiredo’s Training
Despite Figueiredo`s efforts to improve his agility and reactions, many fans have expressed concerns about his training as he prepares for his fight on May 3.
Cory Sandhagen is also a highly skilled striker in the bantamweight division and is known to incorporate grappling into his fighting style.
While Figueiredo has not historically been overwhelmed in grappling exchanges, fans seem more worried about this aspect of the fight than his striking defense.
Several comments suggested that the former flyweight champion might be misdirecting his training focus ahead of his upcoming bout in Iowa.
One comment stated, “All this to get held down for 5 rounds. Go back down to 125 bro.”
Rupert Hartwell