“Lord” is back on the mats.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Featherweight contender Jean Silva is set to face former UFC Bantamweight title challenger Marlon Vera in a submission-only grappling match in the main event of Hype Brazil on April 8, 2026, inside Komplexo Tempo Arena in São Paulo, Brazil.
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The promotion announced the bout earlier today on social media.
Silva is coming off a statement win over Arnold Allen at UFC 324, putting himself right back into the Featherweight title conversation. Since then, he’s been loudly campaigning for a shot at Alexander Volkanovski — even going as far as saying he’d leave the promotion if he were to lose in a potential title fight.
This won’t be Silva’s first trip to Hype Brazil, either.
Just last month, he faced Bryce Mitchell in a submission-only grappling bout that ended in a draw, showing he’s more than willing to stay active outside the Octagon.
As for Vera, he’s looking to get back in the win column in any form of competition.
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“Chito” is currently riding a four-fight losing streak — the longest of his career — most recently dropping a decision to David Martinez at UFC Mexico City. Prior to that, he suffered losses to Aiemann Zahabi, Deiveson Figueiredo, and Sean O’Malley in a title fight.
Now, he’ll test himself in a different setting.
The big question: will Vera’s legendary cardio translate to a submission-only format — or will Silva’s aggressive, finish-hunting style shine through?
In the co-main event, rising star Raul Rosas Jr. takes on former Flyweight champion Figueiredo in another intriguing grappling matchup.
To checkout the latest grappling-related news and notes click here.
