Rising UFC bantamweight contender David Martinez is set to meet veteran Marlon "Chito" Vera in the co-main event of UFC Mexico City on February 28, 2026. The 27-year-old Mexican fighter, ranked No. 10 in the division, views the bout as a significant test against a Latin American legend. Martinez expresses nervousness but draws energy from fighting at home in Arena CDMX.
David Martinez enters the Octagon for his third UFC fight on February 28, 2026, facing Marlon "Chito" Vera in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Kavanagh at Arena CDMX in Mexico City. Martinez, a Dana White’s Contender Series graduate, debuted in the promotion 11 months earlier with a first-round stoppage victory over Saimon Oliveira in the same venue, thrilling the local crowd. His second bout came at Noche UFC in San Antonio, where he stepped in on short notice to replace Raul Rosas Jr. against Rob Font, securing a decision win by dominating the third round on all judges' scorecards. This performance elevated his professional record to 13-1 and placed him at No. 10 in the bantamweight rankings, extending his winning streak to nine fights.
Vera, ranked just ahead at No. 9, brings extensive experience with 25 UFC bouts and a reputation for durability, having never been finished in his career. As a former title challenger and a prominent figure in Latin American MMA, Vera represents a formidable challenge for the young contender. Martinez acknowledges the matchup's importance, stating during media day, “Fighting with Chito Vera in Mexico, in my country, makes sense because he’s a legend in the sport, a legend in Latin America; a legend in Mexico, too. But I am the new blood, a new generation, and it’s a good fight for the people.”
Despite the pressure of his first ranked fight at home, Martinez remains focused. “I am very nervous, but the people of Mexico give me all the energy I need for this fight,” he told UFC.com. He rates his inaugural UFC year an 8.5 or 9 and emphasizes mental preparation: “The biggest challenge with this fight is maybe because it’s my first fight with my number in the rankings. But it’s just the mind; it’s just a challenge in the mind.” Martinez plans to rely on heart and endurance, saying, “I need to fight with heart because he’s a very strong opponent. Enjoy the fight; that’s it. I am ready for three, five, or 10 rounds with Chito Vera.”
A victory could propel Martinez past Vera in the rankings, marking a key step in his rapid ascent. He adopts a fight-by-fight approach, declining to discuss broader 2026 goals beyond this matchup.
