The UFC has opted not to re-sign bantamweight Daniel Marcos after his contract expired in November. Despite posting a 5-1 record with one no contest during his UFC tenure, the promotion chose to part ways with the fighter.
The UFC has parted ways with Peruvian bantamweight Daniel Marcos after choosing not to renew his contract following its expiration in November.
Marcos, known by his nickname "Soncora," compiled a 5-1 record with one no contest during his time in the promotion, a run that appeared to be a strong foundation for continued tenure in the division. The 33-year-old now carries an overall professional record of 18-1-0, making his release one of the more surprising roster cuts in recent memory. Fighting out of Peru and training with Los Perros Sarnosos, the orthodox striker stands five-foot-seven with a 69-inch reach.
Inside the octagon, Marcos demonstrated genuine finishing ability and consistent output. He averaged 4.9 significant strikes landed per minute with an accuracy rate of 53 percent, marks that place him well above the divisional average in both categories. He also contributed on the ground, averaging 1.35 takedowns per 15 minutes, giving him a well-rounded profile that made his non-renewal difficult to explain on paper.
Why it matters
- Marcos leaves with an 18-1-0 overall record, making him an attractive free-agent target for rival promotions
- His strong striking volume and accuracy suggest he remained competitive at the UFC bantamweight level
- The decision raises questions about how the promotion evaluates fighters in a stacked 135-pound division
- Other organizations will likely move quickly to secure a fighter with his credentials and relatively young promotional career
