UFC 256: Figueiredo vs. Moreno betting odds and preview

Deiveson Figueiredo (20-1) and Brandon Moreno (18-5-1) decided to skip the training camp and prepare to face each other less than one month after their previous bouts.

This quick turnaround will either cement one fighter's meteoric rise or produce the year’s biggest upset. 

Let's take a deeper look at this crucial fight at UFC 256.

Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Brandon Moreno

A quick turnaround

Both fighters were absolutely stunning in their last appearance, at UFC 255, as both men got their opponents out in the first round.

While credit is due for both fighters to make a quick return to the arena, it’s a questionable move for Moreno. He is not built to deal with Figueiredo’s arsenal on such a quick turnaround. Moreno is better at grappling, though his striking is decent, but Figueiredo is superior in both aspects.

Moreno won’t pack on any additional size that can help him against the towering champion. Figueiredo’s heavy hands and nimble grappling seem to be too much for Moreno to deal with, which makes him a pretty safe bet.

The only concern may be if the larger Figueiredo struggles in keeping his weight down, but aside from that, he is holding all the cards.

Moreno is outgunned

If Moreno tries to slug it out, he’ll get knocked out. If he tries to force a takedown, he’ll get tapped out. There’s not a clear path for Moreno, aside from a hit-and-run strategy. It’s not the best strategy, but Moreno needs a mind-over-muscle approach.

If he can slow Figueiredo down, Moreno can pick his spots and try to land a counter shot or leg kicks to open up takedown opportunities.

Make no mistake. Moreno must not end up on his back at any point in this fight. He can’t take Figueiredo down and pin him down, so Moreno will need to work fast on the ground and mind his positioning when he gets there.

Figueiredo will seal Fighter of the Year

The difference in power and size will be obvious, and Figueiredo will bully Moreno from corner to corner. Figueiredo will land the harder blows and dominate the action, which will soften Moreno, before a huge punch sends him down to the floor.

Figueiredo will pound Moreno out, within two rounds, at the most.

MMA free picks: Figueiredo -335, Under 2.5 rounds -123

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Check out the entire UFC 256 card at BetAmerica!