The final episode of Dana White’s Contender Series Season 9 brought an explosive close to another thrilling season in Las Vegas.
Since its debut in 2017, the Contender Series has become one of the most reliable gateways to the UFC. Many of today’s top contenders began their journey there, with a few even becoming champions. The show, known as the ultimate job interview, runs for ten weeks each season, featuring five bouts each week. Fighters compete to impress UFC CEO and President Dana White and claim a life-changing contract.
Last year’s edition saw 42 fighters sign with the organization, slightly below the 46 handed out in 2023. This year’s finale matched that record, ending with five more hopefuls earning UFC deals. The season also shattered the all-time record for finishes — 36 of 51 bouts ended early, breaking the previous mark of 32.
Wes Schultz Makes History With Rare Submission
Wes Schultz, a returning contender, finally got his breakthrough performance. He dominated Mario Mingaj to secure his long-awaited UFC contract. Schultz looked sharp from the opening exchanges, landing clean shots and dropping Mingaj with a crisp left hand.
He followed with a takedown, where Mingaj tried to reverse the position. Schultz stayed composed, showing superior grappling and locking in a Suloev Stretch — the first ever in Contender Series history. The submission forced a tap in the first round and earned Schultz his contract on the third attempt.
Michael Oliveira Dazzles With Power And Precision
Michael Oliveira continued his rise with a brutal second-round finish over Victor Valenzuela. From the first bell, Oliveira pressured forward, cutting off the cage and landing heavy low kicks. Valenzuela tried to counter with quick level changes and crisp punches, but Oliveira’s volume proved too much.
In round two, Oliveira broke through completely. He landed a clean right hand that sent Valenzuela crashing to the canvas. Valenzuela tried to recover, but Oliveira’s relentless follow-up dropped him twice more before the referee stopped the fight. The dominant display earned Oliveira his UFC deal in style.
Marwan Rahiki Wins Wild Battle With Vicious KO
Marwan Rahiki and Ananias Mulumba produced chaos inside the cage. Rahiki started fast with a hard right hand and spinning attacks, but Mulumba dropped him with a counter and threatened a choke on the ground. Rahiki escaped and returned fire, creating a back-and-forth brawl that had the crowd roaring.
The second round saw Rahiki take over completely. After nearly locking in a ninja choke, he stunned Mulumba with a head kick and unleashed a violent series of elbows and an uppercut that ended the fight instantly. The knockout secured Rahiki a contract and one of the most thrilling wins of the season.
Juan Diaz Shocks With Spinning Back-Elbow Knockout
Juan Diaz delivered the standout finish of the night with a spectacular knockout over Won Il Kwon. Kwon relied on speed and movement, but Diaz cut off the cage, pressing forward with power and grappling control. Diaz scored a takedown in the second round and forced Kwon to fight off the fence.
Kwon tried to rally with fast punches and elbows, yet Diaz refused to back down. With seconds left in the round, Diaz unleashed a spinning back elbow that landed perfectly. Kwon dropped instantly — marking the first spinning back-elbow knockout in Contender Series history. The crowd erupted as Diaz earned his UFC contract in unforgettable fashion.
Levi Rodrigues Jr. Dominates Main Event
In the main event, undefeated Levi Rodrigues Jr. showcased composure and striking precision against Freddy Vidal. Vidal came out aggressively, trapping Rodrigues against the cage and throwing heavy body shots. Rodrigues stayed calm, countering with quick hands and clean timing.
He landed two crushing knees to Vidal’s head that sent him to the ground. Rodrigues followed with sharp strikes to seal the first-round finish. The win preserved his perfect record and secured a UFC contract, closing the season on a high note.
Jovan Leka Wins Tough Fight But Misses UFC Call
Jovan Leka battled Azamat Nuftillaev in a grueling fight that went the distance. Nuftillaev dominated early with ground control and pressure, while referee Marc Smith warned him for inactivity. Leka turned the tables in round two, reversing position and landing elbows and punches from the top.
Nuftillaev briefly regained momentum by catching a kick and taking Leka down again, but he began to fade as Leka pushed the pace. Leka finished strong, landing heavy shots and stuffing takedown attempts. Although he earned a decision win, his performance didn’t convince Dana White enough for a contract.
A Record Season Ends With Fireworks
Season 9 of Dana White’s Contender Series ended with five new contracts, record-breaking finishes, and unforgettable moments. The show once again proved why it’s the most direct route for hungry fighters chasing their UFC dreams.
