UFC Mexico City: Marlon Vera vs. David Martinez: Preview and Prediction

UFC returns to Mexico City this weekend with a stacked card featuring elite fighters and thrilling matchups for passionate fans. In the main event, former flyweight champion Brandon Moreno faces rising prospect Lone’er Kavanagh in a high-stakes showdown. Meanwhile, the co-main event sees Marlon Vera battling David Martinez in a highly anticipated bantamweight contest.

This classic matchup pits seasoned veteran experience against youthful momentum, creating massive intrigue and excitement among supporters. As anticipation builds across Mexico City, the question remains which fighter holds the stronger chance this weekend.

Marlon Vera

Marlon Vera has competed in the UFC for over a decade and previously challenged for the bantamweight title against Sean O’Malley. Despite his championship opportunity ending in defeat, Vera remains respected for his dangerous striking skills and remarkable durability inside the octagon.

However, the Ecuadorian veteran currently finds himself on a difficult three-fight losing streak while sitting at number nine in the rankings. For Chito, this matchup represents a crucial must-win opportunity to revive momentum and reestablish himself among elite contenders.

David Martinez

David Martinez made his UFC debut in 2025 after delivering an impressive performance on Dana White’s Contender Series. He spectacularly announced himself by defeating Saimon Oliveira via TKO, immediately showcasing his dangerous striking abilities.

Building on that momentum, Martinez secured a statement victory over seasoned veteran Rob Font to enter the top ten rankings. Now, a win over Marlon Vera would likely propel the rising bantamweight toward a high-stakes clash with top-five opposition.

How to watch: Marlon Vera vs. David Martinez

To watch UFC Mexico City in the UK, prelims begin at 1:00 AM GMT, with the main card at 3:30 AM GMT on Sunday. British fans can stream the entire event live on Paramount+, depending on regional availability, with replays offered later afterward online.

In the U.S., prelims start at 8:00 PM ET, followed by the main card at 10:30 PM ET this Saturday night live. American viewers can watch the full fight card live on Paramount+, ensuring complete coverage throughout the evening broadcast with nationwide access.

SHOP: Kickboxing Equipment

Tale of the Tape

CATEGORY	Marlon Vera	David Martinez
AGE	32	26
HEIGHT	5′8″	5′9″
REACH	70″	71″
PRO RECORD	21–9–1	10–1–0
FIGHTING OUT OF	Chone, Ecuador	Mexico City, Mexico

Marlon Vera vs. David Martinez: Final Prediction

Marlon Vera typically operates with patience, sharp counterstriking, and calculated pressure, often allowing opponents to lead exchanges early. He relies heavily on durability, powerful kicks, and timing, trusting his experience in high-level bouts to gradually shift momentum across later rounds.

On the other side, David Martinez brings youthful speed, crisp boxing combinations, and disciplined movement that keep him constantly active throughout exchanges. He maintains range effectively, mixes body and head attacks, and avoids prolonged firefights that traditionally favor veterans like Vera.

If Martinez consistently controls distance, outworks Vera in volume, and neutralizes late surges with smart footwork, rounds could pile up quickly. Over three rounds, his activity and cleaner striking should impress judges enough to secure a clear unanimous decision victory.

Final Prediction: David Martinez via Unanimous decision