Alex Perez Opens Up After First Round Loss at UFC 255

Former UFC title challenger Alex Perez spoke out after his disappointing loss to Deiveson Figueiredo for the belt at UFC 255. The two met in the main event on November 21, 2020, at the Apex in Figueiredo’s first title defense. The bout was a disappointing campaign for Perez as he was submitted at 01:57 of round 1.

It seemed as though the bout drew to a close before Alex Perez got a chance to make any significant impact.  The 24-6 fighter landed a few strong leg kicks before one of them was caught by Deiveson. ‘Deus de Guerra’ then dragged the fight closer to the mat where he sunk in his patented Guillotine choke.

It’s clear as day that Deiveson Figueiredo is a cut above anyone else in the weight class as it stands. He will look to carry forward his momentum towards his second title defense that will take place less than a month from now.

Alex Perez on his title bout loss to Deiveson Figueiredo

Despite a quick night at the office, it seems as though Alex Perez isn’t about to let the loss deject him. Chiefly, the ‘Dana White’s Contender Series’ Alumni relayed a sense of gratitude for reaching the cage on Saturday night. What’s more, he’s certainly a top contender in the division having stoppage wins over game competitors.

Alex Perez stepped in on short notice to take the bout against the champion after Cody Garbrandt withdrew. ‘No Love’ suffered a bicep tear as the pay-per-view date inched closer and Perez was called to fill in. He was fresh off a stoppage win over Jussier Formiga who was the last and only man to best Figueiredo. Alex finished off Formiga with leg kicks to make a statement and eventually challenge for gold.

The team Oyama standout in Perez competed three times in 2020 and he’s gone 3-1 in his last four scraps. It’s clear that he’s a top-level flyweight and he can work his way back up towards a title shot. Given the champion’s quick turnaround at UFC 256, it seems like activity won’t be an issue for the flyweight division.