Marlon Vera's dreams of becoming UFC Champion aren't over.
After 22 fights in the promotion, the 31 year-old finally got his title shot in the main event slot of UFC 299. On Saturday, Vera would challenge UFC Bantamweight Champ and longtime rival Sean O'Malley.
Unfortunately for Vera', the Ecuadorian was no match for O'Malley across the championship distance. 'Sugar' relentlessly pieced up Vera with his striking from range and nearly closed out the show with a knockout in round 2.
'Chito' somehow survived the early onslaught and later punishment, making it to the scorecards after five rounds of action. O'Malley shut out Vera with the following scores: 50-45, 50-45, 50-44.
On the end of a lopsided decision, Vera's keeping his head up and his eyes are still on the prize.
"I dream about last night my whole life and fell short at the end of the day, I will be back," Vera posted on his Instagram. "Thanks to my family and team for being by my side ♥️ the love of Ecuador was felt more than ever thanks for supporting me that way I will be back more strong. The belt will be mine one day. Thank you."
'The Sugar Show' may have prevailed at UFC 299, but the love for Vera in Miami was unmatched. The Ecuadorian fans and media showed out in full force all through fight week, cheering for 'Chito'.
The #5-ranked contender believes the UFC belt will come home to Ecuador when the time is right.
"I'm not going to lie, I'm sorry for not having achieved the goal, but the support and love of the country was something historic," Vera wrote on 'X'. " They don't know the motivation and desire I have to continue and climb again. Thank you, Ecuador, they made themselves felt and I will not stop again."
Since taking away Sean O'Malley's undefeated record in 2020, Vera has gone 5-3, losing to the likes of Jose Aldo and Cory Sandhagen. Each time, Vera has managed to bounce back from those setbacks.
Will we see Marlon Vera challenge for a title once again?
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