Who’s next for Marlon ”Chito” Vera?

Marlon Vera. Photo: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Marlon Vera really put on a show when he defeated Rob Font at Saturday’s UFC Vegas 35. After dropping Font three times in five rounds, and making his face look like a horror movie, ”Chito” got a unanimous decision win as well as the Fight of the Night bonus.

Read more: UFC Vegas 53 results: Marlon Vera defeats Rob Font

With nine wins in his last eleven fights, including victories over Sean O’Malley and former champ Frankie Edgar, the Ecuadorian is now at the very top of the stacked bantamweight division.

So, what’s next for Marlon Vera?

Cory Sandhagen

Cory Sandhagen. Photo: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports

Despite two straight losses, against Petr Yan and TJ Dillashaw, No. 4 ranked Cory Sandhagen is still a hot name at the bantamweight top.

With excellent skills both standing and on the ground, the lanky American could be a interesting opponent for Vera. And with a win against Sandhagen the Ecuadorian could really make a case for a title shot.

T.J. Dillashaw

T.J. Dillashaw. Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

After beeing suspended for two years, T.J. Dillashaw made his comecack with a split decision win over Cory Sandhagen in July 2021.

Now it seems like champion Aljamain Sterling wants No.2 ranked Dillashaw next, after his recent title unification win over Petr Yan. However, it’s debatable if one split decision victory is enough for a title fight. Maybe Dillashaw should face someone like Marlon Vera first?

Petr Yan

Petr Yan. Photo: Jeff Bottari/Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports

After losing to Aljamain Sterling a few weeks ago, No.1 ranked Petr Yan could very well be ”Chito’s” next opponent.

The excellent boxer would be a interesting fight stylistically for the more kick-heavy Marlon Vera, and a win here could secure a shot at the title.

Jose Aldo

Jose Aldo. Photo: USA Today Sports

At the press conference after Saturday’s win, ”Chito” made a case for a rematch against former featherweight champion, and No.3 ranked bantamweight, Jose Aldo.

“I would love to fight Aldo again, and especially in a five-rounder, just because he declined a five-rounder when we fought last December,” Vera said. “I would love to kick his ass, and if we get to match again, I will finish again. I guarantee that.”

However, Aldo seems to be looking for a title shot following Sterling’s recent victory over Yan.

This is Marlon Vera

Marlon Vera. Photo: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

• Age: 29
• Record: 19-7-1
• Weight: 135 lbs
• Reach: 70,5 in
• Height: 5 ft 8 in
• Performance of the Night bonuses: 4
• Fight of the Nigth bonuses: 3

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