Chito Vera Vs David Martinez added to UFC Mexico

UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Almabayev — the promotion’s highly anticipated return to Mexico City on February 28, 2026 — will now feature a marquee bantamweight showdown as Marlon “Chito” Vera meets rising Mexican contender David Martínez in a main-event-level matchup that carries significant implications for both fighters’ careers. The bout, locked in for the Arena CDMX, positions these two top-10 bantamweights on a collision course that could reshape the division’s immediate landscape.

For “Chito” Vera (23-11-1), this matchup represents much more than another fight on the calendar — it’s a critical opportunity to halt a troubling slide. Once among the most feared and dynamic competitors at 135 pounds, the 33-year-old Ecuadorian has dropped three straight fights, including a title-shot loss to Sean O’Malley at UFC 299 and back-to-back decision defeats to Deiveson Figueiredo and Aiemann Zahabi in 2024–25. Those setbacks have seen Vera’s momentum stall and his place in the bantamweight hierarchy questioned, even as he remains ranked inside the top 10.

Vera’s career, however, speaks to his resilience and skill. A veteran of the UFC since 2014 and a standout from The Ultimate Fighter: Latin America, he has been a durable and exciting presence in the division for more than a decade. Known for his unorthodox striking, ever-improving grappling, and dogged pressure, Vera has also amassed one of the highest finish totals at 135 pounds, thrilling fans with memorable performances and earning his share of post-fight bonuses. A win in Mexico City could reignite his title hopes and reaffirm his status as a perennial contender.

Standing across from Vera is David “Black Spartan” Martínez (13-1), a 27-year-old rising star from Mexico City whose rapid ascent has captured the attention of fans and pundits alike. Martínez burst onto the UFC scene after earning his contract through Dana White’s Contender Series in 2024, showcasing a blend of power, precision striking and finishing instincts. In his Octagon debut, he delivered a first-round knockout of Saimon Oliveira — a performance that left no doubt about his arrival.

Martínez followed that up with a statement victory over seasoned veteran Rob Font in September 2025, earning a unanimous decision and solidifying his spot in the UFC’s bantamweight top 10 in just two fights. That victory was particularly significant given Font’s status as a well-established contender and highlighted Martínez’s readiness to compete at the highest level.

The significance of this matchup is unmistakable: Vera needs a rebound to stop the momentum of his recent setbacks and avoid slipping further in the rankings, while Martínez can cement his breakout status with a win over a respected veteran — and in front of his home crowd no less. A victory for the Mexican native could catapult him closer to title contention, while a loss for Vera could raise questions about his future in the championship mix.

Stylistically, the clash promises fireworks. Vera’s experience, grit and finishing ability will be tested by Martínez’s power and rising confidence. If Martinez controls the pace and lands early, he could derail Vera’s attempts to grind and scramble. Conversely, Vera’s seasoned fight IQ and unrelenting pressure might expose any lapses in Martínez’s game.

As the bantamweight division enters a critical stretch in 2026, UFC México’s Vera vs. Martínez stands out as a defining bout — one that could influence matchmaking and title talks for both competitors well into the year. Fans in Mexico City and around the world will be watching closely when these two warriors step into the Octagon on February 28.