UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo - Montel Jackson Takes on Undefeated Daniel Marcos

Step up to the main card of UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo this Saturday, May 3, 2025, live from the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa. A highly anticipated bantamweight showdown is set between America's explosive Montel "Quik" Jackson and the undefeated Peruvian prospect Daniel "Soncora" Marcos. Both fighters are aiming to prove they belong among the elite at 135 pounds.

 

Fighter Backgrounds

Montel Jackson

Montel "Quik" Jackson (14-2-0), representing Pura Vida BJJ in the USA, is a powerful and athletic bantamweight known for his knockout ability. Jackson has secured eight of his fourteen wins via (T)KO and has proven he can finish fights quickly. He is looking to continue his winning streak and make a run towards title contention.

Daniel Marcos

Daniel "Soncora" Marcos (17-0-0), fighting out of American Combat Gym in Peru, is an undefeated bantamweight sensation. Marcos boasts a perfect professional record with eight wins coming via (T)KO. He has impressed in his UFC appearances and is eager to maintain his zero and hand Jackson just his third professional loss.

Fighting Styles and Strengths

Montel Jackson

• Explosive Power: Jackson possesses significant knockout power, particularly in his hands, making him a threat in striking exchanges.
• Athleticism: He is a gifted athlete with speed and agility.
• Southpaw Stance: Fights from a southpaw stance, which can be challenging for orthodox opponents.

Daniel Marcos

• Undefeated Record: Marcos brings the confidence and momentum of a perfect 17-0 record.
• Knockout Ability: With eight wins via TKO/KO, Marcos has proven he can finish opponents on the feet.
• Resilience: Has shown the ability to go the distance and win tough decisions.

Recent Performances

Montel Jackson

Jackson is currently on a five-fight winning streak. His most recent victory was a dominant first-round TKO over Da'Mon Blackshear in July 2024. Prior to that, he secured a first-round TKO win against Rani Yahya in April 2023 and a unanimous decision victory over Julio Arce in November 2022.

Daniel Marcos

Marcos is coming off a split decision victory over Adrian Yanez in December 2024, a significant win to maintain his undefeated record. Before that, he secured a unanimous decision win against John Castaneda in June 2024. His fight against Aoriqileng in February 2024 resulted in a No Contest.

Odds and Betting Information

Fighter	Odds
Montel Jackson	-210
Daniel Marcos	+175

Montel Jackson is the betting favorite in this bantamweight main card bout with odds of -210, while the undefeated Daniel Marcos is the underdog at +175.

Keys to Victory

Montel Jackson

• Utilize Explosive Striking: Jackson should look to land his powerful strikes and capitalize on any openings Marcos presents.
• Control the Distance: Using his slightly longer reach and athleticism, Jackson should aim to control the range and prevent Marcos from getting into his rhythm.
• Avoid Marcos' Momentum: Jackson needs to fight with confidence and not let Marcos' undefeated record intimidate him.

Daniel Marcos

• Maintain Undefeated Composure: Marcos needs to handle the pressure of facing a highly regarded opponent and fight his fight.
• Land Power Shots: Marcos has knockout power and should look for opportunities to land significant strikes on Jackson.
• Go the Distance if Needed: Marcos has shown he can win decisions, and being prepared for a three-round war is important.

 

Prediction