Every champion in MMA history started out somewhere.
For those who make it to the highest stage, the journey begins long before they strap on UFC, Bellator, or PFL gloves. Modern-era fighters progress through the regional ranks with hopes of accomplishing the highest accolades. Many will try, few will succeed.
This month, five fighters on the verge of achieving major promotion notoriety – one for the second time – return to the cage for what could be their stepping-stone fight. There are dozens of fighters close to making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.
- An exciting Australian flyweight was hindered by visa issues when the UFC first showed interest, but when the promotional brass attend his fight Saturday he aims to make his signing undeniable.
- A featherweight from a small Louisiana town plans to welcome striking and make his opponent pay on the ground en route to a UFC contract through Fury FC.
- Day-by-day, week-by-week, year-by-year, a seasoned Texas-based welterweight has put in the works – and he thinks he’s on the verge of finally cashing in his street credit for a UFC contract.
- A Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus from Spain continues his mission to prove his loss on the show was not a representation of his actual abilities.
- A proud Kazakh looks to continue his country’s momentum with a big win in the Middle East.