Deiveson Figueiredo is back in the spotlight this weekend as he headlines UFC on ESPN 67 against Cory Sandhagen in a high-stakes bantamweight matchup that could shape the title picture for the rest of 2025.
Figueiredo, the former flyweight champion, moved up a division after a decorated run but is coming off a loss to Petr Yan. He’ll try to bounce back against one of the bantamweight division’s most respected names. Sandhagen, returning from a layoff, is also looking to reestablish himself after falling short in his last title eliminator. With both men ranked in the top five, a win could push either closer to a title shot or a marquee matchup later this year.
Why They Call Him the ‘God of War’
Deiveson Figueiredo’s nickname, “Deus da Guerra,” means “God of War” in Portuguese — a name that reflects both his fight style and personality.
The name is widely believed to be inspired by the God of War video game franchise, especially the character Kratos. Known for his aggression, toughness, and tactical mindset, Kratos mirrors the traits Figueiredo brings to each fight. Adding to the image, Figueiredo has been seen with a red-dyed streak in his hair, a nod to Kratos’ iconic war paint.
The nickname has become a defining part of his MMA identity.
Inside Figueiredo’s UFC Journey
Figueiredo made his UFC debut in 2017 with a second-round TKO over Marco Beltran. He quickly gained momentum with wins over Jarred Brooks, Joseph Morales, and John Moraga, earning a reputation for knockout power and strong finishing skills.
After suffering his first pro loss to Jussier Formiga in 2019, Figueiredo bounced back with a submission win over Tim Elliott and a TKO of Joseph Benavidez. Though he missed weight in their first meeting, he won the vacant flyweight title in their rematch with a first-round submission.
He successfully defended the belt against Alex Perez and then fought Brandon Moreno just 21 days later in a bout that ended in a majority draw. Moreno won their rematch by submission at UFC 263, but Figueiredo took the title back with a unanimous decision at UFC 270. Their fourth fight ended with Figueiredo losing after a doctor stoppage due to an eye injury.
After that loss, he made the move to bantamweight and picked up wins over Rob Font, Cody Garbrandt, and Marlon “Chito” Vera. His lone setback came last November when former champ Petr Yan edged him out in a five-round decision.
Now ranked No. 5, Figueiredo is chasing another title shot as he gets ready to face Sandhagen in one of the most pivotal bantamweight fights of the year.