Outlook: After Joseph Benavidez knocked out Jussier Formiga in Minnesota, a collision course with Henry Cejudo seemed set, but when it seemed clear that Cejudo intended to defend the bantamweight title first, Benavidez found himself with a title shot anyway. The mood in Norfolk around his matchup with Deiveson Figueiredo almost felt like a coronation of sorts, like one of UFC’s original flyweights finally making it to the top. It made sense, in a way. Benavidez’ only UFC losses came twice to Demetrious Johnson and a split decision to Sergio Pettis, and he looked as good as ever against Formiga. It especially felt like he was bound for gold after Figueiredo missed weight. Instead, he suffered just his second knockout loss, dropping him to 0-3 in UFC title fights. He could bounce back for his fourth shot, though, if a rematch with Figueiredo is booked. With what we know about Benavidez, it’s not a bad bet to think he’s going to come in top form and in a good headspace as he closes in on another chance at gold.
Where We Stand: Flyweight Division
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