UFC Fight Night – Rob Font vs. David Martinez: Preview & Betting Tips

When the UFC first announced this card, the co-main event was supposed to pit seasoned veteran Rob Font against teenage sensation Raul Rosas Jr. in what many framed as Rosas’ “biggest test yet”. Instead, David Martinez now takes on Font, replacing Rosas after he pulled out with a rib injury.

Font (22-8) is exactly what you’d call a “gatekeeper to the elite.” The Boston native has carved out a reputation as one of the cleanest boxers in the division, but also one of the most hittable. His losses tell the story: Jose Aldo, Cory Sandhagen, Marlon Vera, all fighters who were faster, sharper and more athletic than him.

Martinez (12-1) is a Mexican prospect who doesn’t yet have the mainstream buzz but might actually carry more upside in the long run. While he’s not a household name, Martinez brings a dangerous style that has the potential to become a fan favourite in the UFC.

Tale of the Tape

Rob Font – Odds 1.63 (Bet 365)

Record: 22-8

Age: 38

Height: 5ft8

Reach: 71”

Weight: Bantamweight 

Stance: Orthodox 

David Martinez – Odds 2.30 (Bet 365)

Record: 12-1

Age: 27

Height: 5ft5

Reach: 67”

Weight: Bantamweight 

Stance: Orthodox

Rob Font vs David Martinez: Analysis

Font isn’t washed, but he’s beatable, especially against guys who can crack and impose pace and their athleticism on him. One thing is certainly clear in this one is that Font has the clear experience advantage. He’s been in deep waters with some of the best bantamweights, and that composure is hard to replicate. Against a short-notice opponent in Martinez, Font will bank on his jab and volume punching, and try to wear Martinez down as the fight goes on.

Martinez doesn’t have Rosas’ social media push, but stylistically he’s a much more intriguing opponent. He comes forward with aggression, isn’t afraid to throw heavy combinations, and has shown flashes of real finishing power. 

His best path to victory would be to start very fast and catch Font early, before the jab and experience start breaking him down. If he can create chaos in the opening exchanges and land something big, the upset is very real. 

Font vs Martinez: Prediction & Betting Tips

This isn’t the matchup we were originally promised, but it might be the one that gives us a more genuine look at the future of the division. Font remains the litmus test so if Martinez can crack him, it signals he’s a real player at bantamweight.

If Font survives the storm, Martinez will likely be forced into a battle of attrition which he hasn’t yet been involved in. Whereas, we know Font lives and breathes for that.

With all this in mind, I have to go with the younger man here in David Martinez. Although he’s taking this on short notice, he has still been in camp, only for another opponent, so it’s not like he’s unfit or undercooked. I’m taking David Martinez moneyline at odds of 2.30 (Bet 365).