UFC Fight Night – Marlon Vera vs Aiemann Zahabi: Preview & Betting Tips

The bantamweight division gets a fascinating clash on Saturday as veteran contender Marlon “Chito” Vera faces the surging Aiemann Zahabi at UFC Vancouver.

Vera (23-10-1) was once a consistent top-five bantamweight, but the Ecuadorian striker has endured a tough stretch, dropping consecutive bouts before taking an extended layoff.

Zahabi (13-2) arrives riding a six-fight winning streak that has quietly pushed him into the top-15 conversation. The Montreal native, younger brother of famed coach Firas Zahabi, has steadily evolved from a conservative point fighter into a well-rounded, confident striker in recent years.

Tale of the Tape 

Marlon Vera – Odds 2.05

Record: 23-10-1

Age: 32

Height: 5ft8

Reach: 70”

Weight: Bantamweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

Aiemann Zahabi – Odds 1.80

Record: 13-2

Age: 37

Height: 5ft8

Reach: 68”

Weight: Bantamweight

Stance: Orthodox

Marlon Vera vs Aiemann Zahabi: Analysis

Vera remains one of the division’s most dangerous finishers, but questions linger over his timing and sharpness after more than a year away from competition. Meanwhile, Zahabi’s recent win over Jose Aldo cemented him as a legitimate threat and now, a victory over a former title challenger like Vera could propel him into the elite bracket.

Vera’s Muay Thai foundation and unrelenting pace make him one of the division’s most violent finishers. He’s patient to a fault, often starting slow before exploding with elbows, knees, and long-range combinations. However, Zahabi’s footwork and counter-punching could frustrate Vera early. Expect Zahabi to work behind the jab, keeping Vera at bay and racking up volume through clean, efficient strikes.

Vera’s trademark toughness and late-round intensity are proven assets, yet his slow starts often cost him early rounds. Zahabi, on the other hand, thrives in three-round pacing, so this will be a nice blend of styles.

Vera vs Zahabi: Prediction & Betting Tips

I expect Zahabi to set the tone early with crisp boxing and distance management, frustrating Vera’s attempts to close the gap. Vera will likely rally late, but Zahabi’s composure and accuracy should carry him over the line.

Zahabi’s clean technique and fight IQ should allow him to dictate the range and tempo, especially in the opening rounds. If he avoids Vera’s trademark bursts, a unanimous decision victory feels like the most probable outcome.

Still, Vera’s upset potential is undeniable. His power translates late, and he only needs one well-timed counter or head kick to flip the script.

My pick for this one is Aiemann Zahabi moneyline at odds of 1.80. However, bettors that are fancying “Chito” to win, I would advise finding odds of Marlon Vera to win by KO/TKO at around 2/1.