Usually, UFC fighters take a break from fighting, after a long fight camp, leading up to their next bout. However, this isn’t the case for the number eight bantamweight contender Marlon Vera.

‘Chito’ in the previous year (2020) has won only one bout out of three. However, he had a successful year, 2021. The 29-year-old secured two stunning wins this year and cemented his position among the top-10 of the division.

When it comes to training, the Ecuador fighter never takes a break-even if he has no upcoming fights. ‘Chito’ follows the NBA legend Kobe Bryant’s principle. Unlike Bryant, Vera calls it the ‘Immigrant Mentality,’ quoting the famous comedian Joey Diaz.

Vera recently appeared on an episode of Joe Rogan’s podcast where he explained his method of preparation for his fights. He said, “You have to stay ahead. You have to work the whole time. So most people only pushes when they have a contract.”

“When they hear like hey, you might be fighting this date. This is not this sport. I don’t even call…I don’t think this is a sport, this is fighting…it’s fighting. So you better be trained the whole time. And just ready to go.”

Meanwhile, Rogan explained the hardships of the camp and why fighters take a break after that. He said, “And when you are not in camp, you have to be improved. Yeah, you have to be working on things. There are some people that don’t do that and you know the camps are hard and some people, when they get out of camp they just wanna get fat and relax.”

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‘Chito’ responded by saying, “Not me. Like Kobe Bryant said, the mamba mentality, I call it immigrant mentality. It’s all f**king day. Seven days a week.”

What is next for Marlon Vera in the bantamweight division?

‘Chito’ is one of the most prominent names in the bantamweight division of UFC. He has a professional record of 18-7, with seven knockout and eight submission wins under his name.

In his recent fight, on the main card of UFC 268, ‘Chito’ destroyed the former UFC champion, Frankie Edgar, with a vicious front kick to the face. Ever since then, fans are wondering what’s next for the fighter.

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However, there has been no official announcement on his next opponent. Vera has previously knocked out the undefeated UFC fighter and surging star Sean O’Malley in the first round at UFC 252.

However, the latter suffered an ankle injury in the fight, which played a major role in his loss, according to O’Malley. Hence, the promotion can run this fight again, it will serve as a delightful treat for the fans, considering the beef between the fighters.

Also, Marlon Vera has expressed his interest in fighting former champion Jose Aldo. The latter defeated ‘Chito’ in 2020. Hence, the 29-year-old wants to avenge his loss. This could also be a viable option for the promotion. However, the fans will have to wait until the UFC makes an official statement.

What are your thoughts on Vera’s words? Let us know in the comments below.