This bantamweight matchup pits surging Peruvian prospect Daniel Marcos against ranked knockout artist Montel Jackson in a high-stakes battle that could launch the winner toward the top 10. Both men bring impressive momentum and unique strengths into this clash, but only one will leave Des Moines with a major statement win.
Montel Jackson, currently ranked #15, is one of the most physically imposing bantamweights on the roster. At 5'10" with an 75.5-inch reach, he brings a rare combination of size, speed, and power to the division. Jackson is riding a five-fight win streak, including two Performance of the Night knockouts over Rani Yahya and Da’Mon Blackshear. With eight career KOs, his left hand remains one of the most dangerous weapons in the weight class. Despite his striking prowess, Jackson also has a solid wrestling background and has shown strong takedown defense and control when needed.
On the other side is undefeated Daniel Marcos, a former 300 Sparta champion who has quickly made a name for himself since entering the UFC. Now 4-0 with 1 no-contest inside the Octagon, Marcos has shown poise, durability, and a high fight IQ against increasingly tough opposition. His most recent win, a split decision over Adrian Yañez, showcased his ability to go the distance in competitive striking battles. Marcos lacks the highlight-reel finishes of Jackson but compensates with high output, precise timing, and great composure under fire.
This fight will come down to whether Jackson can impose his power and length early, or if Marcos can drag the fight into deep waters and outwork him with pressure and volume. Jackson has the explosiveness to end the fight quickly, but if Marcos can survive the first round and start to chip away at Jackson’s pace, his undefeated record could remain intact.
Montel Jackson – Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Da’Mon Blackshear – KO (0:18 R1) – July 13, 2024
2. Win vs. Rani Yahya – KO (R1) – April 22, 2023
3. Win vs. Julio Arce – Unanimous Decision – Nov 12, 2022
4. Win vs. JP Buys – Unanimous Decision – Sep 18, 2021
5. Win vs. Jesse Strader – TKO (R1) – Mar 20, 2021
Daniel Marcos – Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Adrian Yañez – Split Decision – Dec 14, 2024
2. Win vs. John Castañeda – Unanimous Decision – Jun 8, 2024
3. NC vs. Aori Qileng – Accidental Groin Kick – Feb 10, 2024
4. Win vs. Davey Grant – Split Decision – Jul 22, 2023
5. Win vs. Saimon Oliveira – KO (R2) – Jan 21, 2023
Prediction
Daniel Marcos def. Montel Jackson via Split Decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)
This should be a tightly contested fight with big swings in momentum. Jackson may start strong, but Marcos’s durability, pace, and composure should carry him through a tough early storm to steal rounds late and remain unbeaten.
