Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

UFC rising star with medical career speaks out on interest in Octagon doctor role

Originally posted on HITC | By Christopher De Santiago | Last updated Sep 16, 2025 1:14 PM ET

David Martinez could have a future in the UFC that extends beyond his fighting career.

It is rare to see someone break into the top 10 after just two UFC appearances, but Mexico’s Martinez did exactly that, beating ninth-ranked Rob Font by unanimous decision in the co-main event of Noche UFC on Saturday.

Outside of the cage, he works as an orthopaedic surgeon back home in Mexico.

After stopping Pedro Munhoz by TKO in his debut earlier this year, he swapped out his old nickname ‘The Black Spartan’ for a more fitting title: ‘Doctor’.

Regarding that, the new bantamweight contender was recently asked if he would ever take on a role as a doctor for the UFC.

David Martinez says he is open to UFC doctor role after fighting career

Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Ringside physicians play a crucial role in UFC events, handling everything from cut checks to vision assessments and stepping in when fighters need protection.

So, is Martinez interested in that kind of job down the line? He responded.

“That would be incredible,” Martinez said of potentially becoming a UFC doctor when his fighting career is over (via Cageside Press).

Martinez added: “The two things I love the most: fighting and medicine.”

“What’s better than being a doctor there or something like that?” he concluded.

Martinez eyes high-profile bout following Noche UFC

Martinez, now 2-0 in the UFC, is expected to have a ranking next to his name when the updated lists are released.

The bantamweight division is one of the most competitive and talent-rich areas in the sport.

Just above Font in the rankings are names like Umar Nurmagomedov, Petr Yan, Sean O’Malley, Cory Sandhagen and current champion Merab Dvalishvili.

Given how well Martinez performed against Font, it would not be surprising if he is matched up with another top-10 opponent soon.

Martinez holds a professional record of 13-1 with ten knockouts. He once fought three times in a single night during a tournament at Combate Global back in 2021.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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