Marlon Vera is taking defeat on the chin.
On Saturday, “Tito” fell short of a shot at UFC gold with a lopsided decision loss to Sean O'Malley in the main event of UFC 299. In the aftermath, Vera was unable to speak to reporters and had to hold a press conference instead. Fans didn't really understand his reaction to his loss as he was taken to the hospital. Now that's the case.
On Sunday night, Vela took to his social media to give his thoughts on the loss, thanking the fans, especially Ecuador, for their support and promising to return in the future to finish the job.
“Last night I had a dream of my whole life, but at the end of the day it didn't come true. I would like to thank my family and team for being by my side and I will be back again.
“My love for Ecuador has been felt more than ever. Thank you for supporting me, I will come back stronger. The belt will be mine one day. Thank you [Ecuador]”
Bella also posted a similar message on her Twitter.
There is no relationship between me and Duero, there is no activity of the Algo Histórico of Metapero el Apoyo and Amor del Pai, your motive and Ganasquetengo de Segil and Bolver Escolar, the Ecuadorian saints of gratitude give me Bolvere and Parral give
— CHTOVERA (@chitoveraUFC) March 10, 2024
“I'm not going to lie, it hurts not to reach my goal, but the love and support from my homeland has been historic,” Vera said. “You don't understand my motivation and ambition to continue climbing. Thank you Ecuador, your presence is felt and I get back on my feet.”
Vera and O'Malley have a long history as rivals, dating back to Vera's victory over the bantamweight champion in 2020. Tito was unable to replicate that success in this match, but O'Malley outscored him with a massive 230-89 blowout. He worked hard against Vera for the majority of the 25-minute match.
Vera is currently 15-10 in his UFC career.
