The ninth season of Dana White’s Contender Series continued with another thrilling night of fights in Las Vegas. Fans witnessed high stakes, intense exchanges, and the rise of new talent eager to earn UFC contracts.
Since its launch in 2017, DWCS has introduced numerous fighters who now compete at the highest level in mixed martial arts. Several past contestants have gone on to win UFC titles, cementing the show’s reputation as the ultimate proving ground. The series runs ten weeks, featuring five fights per episode, allowing competitors to showcase their skills and impress UFC President Dana White.
Last year, 42 fighters earned UFC contracts across ten events, slightly down from 46 in 2023. This week, season nine’s episode four delivered four new prospects ready to join the Octagon.
A Controversial Opening Battle
Tommy McMillen narrowly defeated David Mgoyan in a majority decision that divided the judges. McMillen controlled the early grappling exchanges and countered effectively, but Mgoyan landed a powerful spinning elbow that floored McMillen. Mgoyan added a flash knockdown and attempted to finish McMillen against the fence. Despite staying on top during ground exchanges and landing heavy elbows, Mgoyan could not secure the finish.
McMillen bounced back, stopping a takedown and opening a cut above Mgoyan’s eye with precise striking. The fighters exchanged heavy blows in the third round. Judges ultimately favored McMillen’s effective striking, awarding him the decision and a UFC contract, while Mgoyan earned his win money.
Mandel Nallo Shines With First-Round Knockout
Mandel Nallo made a strong impression with a rapid knockout of Samuel Silva. He started with aggressive kicks before landing a perfect right hand that ended the fight instantly. The victory earned Nallo a UFC contract and confirmed his striking power on the big stage.
Cezary Oleksiejczuk Joins His Brother in the UFC
Cezary Oleksiejczuk secured a first-round victory over Theo Haig in an unusual finish. Haig attempted to pressure with grappling but struggled against Oleksiejczuk’s control. The fight went to the mat, where heavy ground strikes appeared to hit the back of Haig’s head. Referee Gary Copeland paused the action, but replay showed the strikes were legal, confirming a knockout for Oleksiejczuk. He earned a UFC contract and now joins his brother Michal on the roster.
Main Event Brings Quick Knockout
Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani closed the night with a 68-second knockout of Jack Congdon. Despite being physically smaller, Lebosnoyani worked inside and landed a devastating head kick. He followed with a right hand to finish the fight and secure his UFC contract.
A Battle of Alumni
TUF 33 alumnus Eduardo “Chapolin” Henrique faced DWCS alum An Tuan Ho on short notice. Chapolin gained the advantage early, assisted by a controversial knee that went uncalled despite Ho being grounded. He dominated Ho with wrestling and ground damage over the next two rounds, sweeping the scorecards. The performance, however, did not earn a UFC contract.
The night highlighted the intensity and opportunity that defines Dana White’s Contender Series. Four fighters now take the next step toward UFC stardom, while others leave lessons learned for future opportunities.
Fight Results
- Tommy McMillen vs. David Mgoyan
- Eduardo “Chapolin” Henrique vs. An Tuan Ho
- Mandel Nallo vs. Samuel Silva
- Theo Haig vs. Cezary Oleksiejczuk
- Jack Congdon vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani
