Adrian Yanez (17-5)
Yanez, 31, is renowned for his crisp boxing and knockout ability, with 11 of his wins coming by KO/TKO. A product of Metro Fight Club, he excels in pressuring opponents and finding openings for clean, powerful strikes. However, Yanez has shown vulnerability against heavy leg kicks and elite strikers, as evidenced in his recent losses.
Strengths:
* Exceptional boxing with pinpoint accuracy.
* Effective at cutting angles and capitalizing on counters.
* Strong finishing ability when sensing his opponent is hurt.
Challenges:
* Struggles with opponents who can disrupt his rhythm with movement or kicks.
* Has been stopped twice via strikes, indicating susceptibility under sustained pressure.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. Vinicius Salvador – TKO (Punches) at UFC Fight Night 241 (May 18, 2024)
* Loss vs. Jonathan Martinez – TKO (Leg Kick) at UFC Fight Night 230 (Oct 14, 2023)
* Loss vs. Rob Font – TKO (Punches) at UFC 287 (Apr 8, 2023)
* Win vs. Tony Kelley – TKO (Punches) at UFC on ESPN 37 (Jun 18, 2022)
* Win vs. Davey Grant – Decision (Split) at UFC Fight Night 198 (Nov 20, 2021)
Daniel Marcos (16-0)
The undefeated Peruvian fighter Daniel Marcos has quietly built a perfect record, showcasing a blend of striking precision and tactical patience. Training with Los Perros Sarnosos, Marcos has shown his ability to adapt mid-fight and excel in decision battles. His knockout wins, including finishes with knees and punches, highlight his versatility.
Strengths:
* Composed and calculated striking game.
* Ability to mix up techniques and target openings effectively.
* Strong cardio and fight IQ, allowing him to control the pace over three rounds.
Challenges:
* Lack of finishing power against high-level opponents compared to Yanez.
* Limited experience against opponents with elite boxing and pressure.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. John Castaneda – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC on ESPN 57 (Jun 8, 2024)
* NC vs. Qileng Aori – Accidental Groin Kick at UFC Fight Night 236 (Feb 10, 2024)
* Win vs. Davey Grant – Decision (Split) at UFC Fight Night 224 (Jul 22, 2023)
* Win vs. Saimon Oliveira – KO (Knee to the Body and Punches) at UFC 283 (Jan 21, 2023)
* Win vs. Brandon Lewis – Decision (Unanimous) at DWCS (Sep 13, 2022)
Prediction
This matchup is likely to be decided on the feet, as both fighters favor striking exchanges. Yanez’s sharp boxing and ability to land combinations give him a slight edge in firepower, but Marcos’s patience and versatility may help him avoid Yanez’s high-damage output.
Key Factors:
* Yanez’s ability to check leg kicks and maintain forward pressure.
* Marcos’s ability to control the range and avoid prolonged exchanges in the pocket.
While Marcos’s undefeated record is impressive, Yanez’s boxing skills and knockout power should prove decisive. If Yanez can avoid being slowed by leg kicks and stay composed, he is likely to find a finish in the later rounds.
Pick: Adrian Yanez by second-round TKO.
