“Chito” Vera Shines at New York Fashion Week: UFC Star Hits the Catwalk

UFC star Marlon “Chito” Vera made headlines this week, not for his performance in the octagon, but for his surprise appearance at New York Fashion Week. On Friday, September 6, Vera took to the runway, walking in one of the most prestigious fashion events in the world.

Known for his grit and determination in the UFC’s bantamweight division, where he’s currently ranked seventh, Vera showed a different side of himself. This time, he traded his fighting gloves for high fashion, wearing designs by acclaimed Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarría. Vera showcased part of Chavarría’s “America” Spring/Summer 2025 collection, blending the world of sports and style.

The 31-year-old fighter’s foray into the fashion world is a testament to his growing influence beyond the UFC. While Vera’s skills in the octagon are well-known, his appearance at New York Fashion Week reflects his rising status as a global sports icon. Despite his recent loss in August against Deiveson Figueiredo, Vera continues to maintain a strong presence in both sports and pop culture.

Chito’s fashion debut came at a pivotal time in his career. As he awaits news of his next opponent, Vera remains active on social media, engaging with fans and celebrating the successes of his fellow fighters. Recently, he congratulated his compatriot, Michael Morales, for his victory against Neil Magny in the UFC welterweight division.

With his catwalk appearance, Vera joins a growing number of athletes who are leveraging their sports fame to step into the world of fashion and entertainment. His participation in New York Fashion Week highlights the expanding influence of combat sports athletes in global culture.

As Chito Vera continues to dominate headlines, both in and out of the ring, fans can expect to see more of the Ecuadorian star embracing new challenges. Whether it’s inside the cage or on the catwalk, Vera is proving he’s a force to be reckoned with.