UFC Des Moines: Marlon Vera vs. Mario Bautista Adds Fireworks to Stacked Card

The UFC is set to make its long-awaited return to Iowa with UFC Des Moines, scheduled for May 3, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Arena. As the fight card continues to take form, fans are buzzing with excitement over the latest addition: a bantamweight clash between Marlon “Chito” Vera and the surging Mario Bautista.

Mario Bautista and Chito Vera throw down at #UFCDesMoines 🔥

Who wins and how?? pic.twitter.com/a2n5QdquW2

— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) February 27, 2025

Vera (23-10-1 MMA, 15-9 UFC) enters this bout looking to snap a two-fight losing skid. The Ecuadorian fighter’s recent setbacks include a title fight loss to former champion Sean O’Malley and a unanimous decision defeat against Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC on ABC 7 last August. Despite these losses, Vera’s most recent victory came against Pedro Munhoz at UFC 292, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level of the division.

On the other side of the Octagon, Mario Bautista (15-2 MMA, 9-2 UFC) rides into Des Moines on an impressive seven-fight winning streak. The 31-year-old American is fresh off a split decision victory over former champion Jose Aldo at UFC 307 in October. While Bautista faced some criticism for his performance against “The King of Rio,” he nonetheless extended his winning run and solidified his position as a rising force in the bantamweight ranks.

This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter between Vera’s well-rounded skill set and Bautista’s momentum. With both fighters known for their aggressive styles, fans can expect a high-paced battle that could easily steal the show on fight night.

UFC Des Moines: A Stacked Card Takes Shape

As the UFC makes its first appearance in Des Moines since UFC 26 in June 2000, the promotion is pulling out all the stops to deliver an unforgettable night of action. The Vera vs. Bautista bout joins an already impressive lineup of confirmed fights for the event.

Headlining the first fight card in Des Moines in quite some time is two top-ranked bantamweight contenders Cory Sandhagen and Deiveson Figueiredo. Both fighters will be looking for a big statement win in hopes of getting the next crack at the bantamweight title.

Cory Sandhagen will fight Deiveson Figueiredo at #UFCDesMoines on May 3rd. (first rep. @leoguimaraesmma) #UFC #MMA #UFCESPN #UFC2025 #MainEvent pic.twitter.com/3zJdBf8ndB

— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) February 20, 2025

In the women’s strawweight division, Marina Rodriguez is set to face off against Gillian Robertson in what promises to be an exciting clash of styles. Rodriguez, known for her striking prowess, will look to use her reach advantage against the submission specialist Robertson.

The welterweight division will see fireworks as Santiago Ponzinibbio squares off against Daniel Rodriguez. Both fighters are known for their willingness to engage in stand-up wars, making this bout a strong candidate for Fight of the Night honors.

In a battle of veteran female bantamweights, former champion Miesha Tate will take on Yana Santos. Tate’s grappling expertise will be put to the test against Santos’ well-rounded skill set.

The featherweight division will be represented by an intriguing matchup between Trevor Peek and Jeong Yeong Lee. Both fighters are looking to make a statement and climb the ranks in the competitive 145-pound weight class[4][5].

Rounding out the confirmed bouts is a bantamweight tilt featuring Cameron Smotherman against Serhiy Sidey. This clash of up-and-coming talents could very well determine a future contender in the division[4][5].

UFC Des Moines is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for MMA enthusiasts. With a mix of established veterans, rising stars, and compelling matchups across multiple weight classes, the card offers something for every fan. As we approach May 3, 2025, all eyes will be on the Wells Fargo Arena for what promises to be an electrifying night of UFC action.