One UFC bantamweight up-and-comer has some firm opinions on the skillset that his division's most recent title challenger possesses.
Marlon Vera unsuccessfully competed for the 135-pound gold this past March at UFC 299, riding on his past victory over champion Sean O'Malley to secure a rematch on the back of a 1-1 record in 2023.
While the Ecuadorian vowed to repeat his first-round knockout of "Sugar" in Miami, he was outclassed across five rounds, with O'Malley recording his first title defense in dominant fashion.
Vera came under fire from plenty of fans and fellow fighters in the aftermath, many of whom questioned his ability to hang with the very best.
According to this prospect, he can't even hang with the newcomers...
Loughran Not Impressed By Vera's Ability: 'I'm 1-1 In The UFC & Think I'd Run Through Him'
During a recent interview with InsideFighting, UFC bantamweight Caolan Loughran gave his take on some of the prospects, stars, and champions plying their trade in the sport’s premier promotion.
When Vera’s name came up, the Irishman said he sees nothing but a "terrible" fighter.
He did have some positive things to say about the Ecuadorian as a person. But when it comes to action inside the cage, Loughran believes that just two fights into his UFC career, even he could make a fight against Vera look easy.
Sh*t fighter. Terrible fighter. I'm being honest," Loughran said. "He got to the UFC title but that was purely off the O'Malley first one. Don't rate him in any area.
Fair play to him and what he's doing for his daughter. It's a lovely story. Nice guy. I just think he's a f*cking heavy bag," Loughran continued. "I am 1-1 in the UFC and I think I'd run through 'Chito,' who just fought for a title. Put him on his back and he's like a fish out of water. ... I think he's a sh*t fighter.
The next person looking to "run through" Vera will be Deiveson Figueiredo, who is set to share the cage with "Chito" at the upcoming UFC Fight Night event in Abu Dhabi early next month.
Should he fall to a losing skid in 2024 at the hands of "Deus Da Guerra," Vera's hopes for a second title shot down the line will take a firm hit.