UFC newcomer Daniel Marcos sets sights on title: 'I have the potential'

Daniel Marcos’s goal is clear – become UFC champion.

The Peruvian prospect has ambitious goals now that he’s successfully started his UFC career. Marcos (14-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) had to go to enemy territory for his first appearance, which came against Brazil’s Saimon Oliveira at UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro.

The 30-year-old made a statement in his debut and put away Oliveira with brutal knees to the body in the second round of their bantamweight contest.

“I got to work that day and I was focused on demolishing, finishing my rival – and that’s what happened in the second round,” Marcos told MMA Junkie in Spanish. “I feel happy because of it, and it’s a great step in my professional MMA career.

“There are more steps to come, and I want to keep going like this, tranquil and not rushing anything. I’m happy with my team in Peru and in Miami, and we’re moving forward.”

Marcos is undefeated and regarded by many as one of the brightest prospects to come out of Peru. He thinks he has what it takes to extend his streak all the way to a championship fight.

“I want to be the best in the world, and I’m here to do just that,” Marcos said. “I’ve had dreams of the title. I’ve dreamt that I can get there. If you have a dream, you can turn that into a reality with hard work. For me, nothing is impossible. Everything is possible.

“I don’t want two, three fights and be remembered as just a fighter that came and went. I want to be remembered as a champion. The champions are made of bone and flesh, like me. I train really hard and I have the potential. I’m going to keep fighting and keep bringing my name up the UFC rankings. This was just the first step.”

Marcos wants to keep busy in 2023 and keep racking up experience in the UFC. He’s hoping to return before the summer.

“I’m always training and ready,” Marcos said. “I train hard and I stay in shape. If I get the opportunity to fight in April or May or whenever, I’ll be ready to take on whatever challenge. I’m sure of that. April is a good month.”