UFC Fight Night 262: Vera vs. Zahabi takes place on October 18, 2025, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada, featuring a pivotal bantamweight showdown between former title challenger Marlon “Chito” Vera and surging Canadian contender Aiemann Zahabi. Both aim to climb closer to the 135-pound elite in a stylistic clash of aggression versus precision.
Marlon Vera
Marlon Vera (23–10–1) remains one of the most dangerous and durable bantamweights in the division. Known for his finishing instinct and relentless spirit, the Ecuadorian star owns divisional records for finishes (10), knockouts (6), and submission attempts (16). His résumé features signature victories over Dominick Cruz, Frankie Edgar, Rob Font, and Pedro Munhoz, while recent defeats to Deiveson Figueiredo and Sean O’Malley came against top-tier opposition.
Vera’s strength lies in his diverse striking—especially kicks, elbows, and knees—blended with black belt-level jiu-jitsu. He thrives in chaotic scrambles and often rallies late when opponents fade. His cardio and toughness remain his trademarks.
Marlon Vera – Last 5 Fights:
Win – Dominick Cruz | KO (Head Kick) | UFC ESPN 41 | August 13, 2022
Loss – Cory Sandhagen | Decision (Split) | UFC ESPN 43 | March 25, 2023
Win – Pedro Munhoz | Decision | UFC 292 | August 19, 2023
Loss – Sean O’Malley | Decision | UFC 299 | March 9, 2024
Loss – Deiveson Figueiredo | Decision | UFC ABC 7 | August 3, 2024
Keys to victory: Apply forward pressure, mix in body kicks and clinch strikes, and drag Zahabi into scrambles where Vera’s finishing ability can shine.
Aiemann Zahabi
Aiemann Zahabi (13–2) enters with momentum, riding a six-fight win streak that has earned him a spot in the bantamweight top ten. The Tristar-trained Canadian, brother of famed coach Firas Zahabi, has posted impressive wins over Pedro Munhoz, Javid Basharat, and José Aldo. His approach is built on sharp boxing fundamentals, measured output, and excellent fight IQ.
Zahabi’s patience and tactical precision make him difficult to hit cleanly. He uses a disciplined jab, effective counterpunching, and strong takedown defense to frustrate brawlers. While not as flashy as Vera, he is highly consistent and efficient.
Aiemann Zahabi – Last 5 Fights:
Win – Ricky Turcios | Decision | UFC ESPN 39 | July 9, 2022
Win – Aori Qileng | KO (Punch) | UFC 289 | June 10, 2023
Win – Javid Basharat | Decision | UFC FN 238 | March 2, 2024
Win – Pedro Munhoz | Decision | UFC FN 246 | November 2, 2024
Win – José Aldo | Decision | UFC 315 | May 10, 2025
Keys to victory: Maintain distance control, counter Vera’s forward surges, and neutralize grappling exchanges with strong defensive positioning.
Fight Breakdown
This matchup contrasts Vera’s chaotic finishing power with Zahabi’s disciplined technique. Vera is the more dynamic threat, capable of ending fights in a flash, while Zahabi’s composure and technical output make him dangerous in extended exchanges.
Zahabi’s best chance lies in frustrating Vera and landing sharp counters, especially if he can control pace and avoid heavy leg damage. However, Vera’s unpredictability, variety of attacks, and late-round pressure could eventually overwhelm Zahabi’s measured style.
Prediction
Expect Zahabi to start strong with technical boxing and range control, but Vera’s aggression and relentless pace should wear him down. Once Vera finds rhythm and space for his kicks, his momentum typically snowballs.
Prediction: Marlon Vera def. Aiemann Zahabi via TKO (Round 3)
A victory would re-establish Vera as a contender in the top five, while a Zahabi upset would mark a breakthrough moment for Canadian MMA in the bantamweight division.