In a highly anticipated bantamweight showdown, Montel Jackson and Daniel Marcos are set to clash on the main card of UFC on ESPN 67 at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This matchup promises to be one of the highlights of the evening, showcasing two fighters at different points in their careers but both eager to make their mark in the octagon.
Montel Jackson, known as "Quik," enters the fight with an impressive record of 14 wins and 2 losses in mixed martial arts (MMA), including 8 victories in the UFC. Currently riding a five-fight winning streak, Jackson's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular. His last three victories include notable first-round stoppages against Jesse Strades, Rani Yahya, and Da'Mon Blackshear. Notably, Jackson earned Performance of the Night bonuses for his impressive finishes against Yahya and Blackshear, highlighting his explosive fighting style.
On the other side of the octagon, Daniel Marcos boasts an undefeated record of 17 wins and no losses, with 4 of those victories coming in the UFC. Marcos is coming off a split decision win over Adrian Yanez, a fight that showcased his resilience and ability to adapt under pressure. While one judge scored the bout in favor of Yanez, Marcos's determination and skill earned him the nod, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the bantamweight division.
The stakes are high for both fighters as they prepare for this exciting matchup. Jackson, currently ranked as the No. 15 bantamweight in the world, is looking to extend his winning streak and solidify his position among the division's elite. With his height and reach advantages, alongside his striking power and wrestling skills, Jackson is a formidable opponent. He leads the UFC bantamweight division with 11 knockdowns and has recorded at least one knockdown in seven consecutive fights, demonstrating his striking prowess.
However, Marcos is not to be underestimated. His technical skills and ability to withstand pressure make him a dangerous contender. While he may not possess Jackson's knockout power, Marcos has shown that he can outlast opponents over three rounds, making him a tough challenge for anyone in the octagon. As both fighters prepare to step into the cage, the anticipation builds for what could be a thrilling contest.
As fight night approaches, the oddsmakers have placed their bets, favoring Montel Jackson with odds of -230, while Daniel Marcos is listed at +184 via FanDuel. These odds reflect Jackson's recent success and the expectations surrounding his performance. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Marcos can defy the odds and maintain his undefeated streak against a seasoned competitor like Jackson.
In a recent analysis, MMA Junkie analyst Dan Tom emphasized the significance of this matchup, noting that it serves as arguably the second-best fight on the card. “Jackson is easily one of the biggest bantamweights this weight class has seen,” Tom stated. He also pointed out that Jackson's struggles with high output could play a role in the fight, especially considering the weight cut challenges that long and lanky fighters often face.
Marcos, on the other hand, has demonstrated the ability to adapt to different fighting styles, having faced a variety of opponents throughout his career. His clinch work and counter-wrestling skills could prove pivotal in neutralizing Jackson's striking and wrestling advantages. While Jackson may have the power, Marcos's iron chin and dependable output could give him the edge he needs to secure a victory.
As fight time approaches, the excitement continues to build. Jackson and Marcos are expected to make their way to the cage at approximately 11:10 p.m. ET, with the fight set to be broadcast on ESPN 2 and available for streaming on ESPN+. Fans are eagerly awaiting this bantamweight banger, with both fighters poised to leave it all in the octagon.
In conclusion, the Montel Jackson vs. Daniel Marcos fight is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter, with both fighters bringing their unique skills and strategies to the octagon. As they prepare to face off, the question remains: who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes bantamweight battle? With Jackson's power and Marcos's resilience, fans can expect an unforgettable night of fights at UFC on ESPN 67.
