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.
- A fighter who lost on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2022 has become the focal point for the UFC president to scout a local show in Boston.
- An Invicta champion from Brazil continues to build notoriety and her first title defense could propel her to the next level.
- A rising, 25-year-old welterweight has competed in martial arts for 22 years already, but has bigger and better aspirations on his mind – including being one of the highest-paid athletes ever.
- An undefeated heavyweight from the northeast United States looks to keep his pristine winning percentage maintained and catch some eyeballs in the process.
- A former UFC fighter on an incredible win streak hopes another win against a nationally-imported UFC alumnus is enough to get him another opportunity in the biggest of big leagues.