Song Yadong will headline UFC Macau this weekend, taking on Deiveson Figueiredo in a five-round bantamweight main event at Galaxy Arena in Macau, China.
The UFC brought the two fighters face-to-face ahead of the event for promotional purposes, with their bout set to stream on the Paramount+ digital network.
Speaking ahead of fight night, Song said of Figueiredo: "He’s a very good fighter with a lot of experience, a former champion," before outlining his own confidence in all areas.
"But I know what he’s going to do. Whether it’s grappling or striking, I’m totally prepared for everything he brings. I know he’s going to try to take me down. But I’m a black belt too. I can handle it. I believe my jiu-jitsu is better than his. It’s going to be hard for him to take me down. I really focused on my offense, especially my kicking. I’ve been training Muay Thai for many years. I want to use my kicks more in this fight."
The matchup also comes with added history: Petr Yan holds victories over both men, including Song at UFC 299 and Figueiredo at UFC Macau in 2024.
For Song, this main event doubles as a long-awaited return to fighting on home soil. "It’s been eight years since I last fought in China," he said. "I’m so excited about this fight. Fighting in front of a Chinese crowd again is going to be something special. It’s a great feeling. It’s going to be a really great feeling. For me, I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve already headlined main events before, so I just treat this like any other fight, stay calm, stay focused. I’m good."
