Dana White’s Contender Series returned to Las Vegas with another night of electrifying fights and rising MMA talent. Fans saw high stakes, fast action, and new prospects ready to make their mark.
Since 2017, DWCS has launched the careers of numerous UFC fighters. Several past contestants have even captured UFC titles, proving the series as a key platform for emerging talent. The show spans ten weeks, with five fights per episode, giving competitors a chance to impress UFC President Dana White.
Last year, 42 fighters earned UFC contracts across ten events, slightly down from 46 in 2023. This week, four more fighters seized their opportunity to join the UFC roster.
Controversy Opens the Night
Tommy McMillen edged out David Mgoyan in a narrow, majority decision that sparked debate. McMillen controlled early grappling exchanges and countered effectively, but Mgoyan landed a spinning elbow that floored him. Mgoyan scored a flash knockdown and tried to finish McMillen against the fence. Despite heavy elbows on the ground, Mgoyan could not secure a finish.
McMillen fought back, stuffing a takedown and opening a cut above Mgoyan’s eye with precise striking. The two traded heavy blows in the third round. Judges favored McMillen’s striking, awarding him the decision and a UFC contract, while Mgoyan earned his win money.
Mandel Nallo’s First-Round Knockout
Mandel Nallo delivered a stunning first-round knockout of Samuel Silva. He began aggressively with kicks before landing a precise right hand that ended the fight instantly. The victory earned Nallo a UFC contract and showcased his striking skills.
Cezary Oleksiejczuk Follows His Brother to the UFC
Cezary Oleksiejczuk earned a first-round win over Theo Haig in a surprising finish. Haig tried to pressure with grappling but could not match Oleksiejczuk’s control. The fight went to the mat, and heavy ground strikes briefly caused a referee stoppage. Replay confirmed the strikes were legal, and Oleksiejczuk scored a knockout. He earned a UFC contract and joins his brother Michal on the roster.
Main Event Delivers Lightning-Fast Finish
Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani closed the night with a 68-second knockout of Jack Congdon. Despite a size disadvantage, Lebosnoyani worked inside and landed a devastating head kick, followed by a right hand to finish the fight. The performance earned him a UFC contract.
Alumni Showdown
TUF 33 alumnus Eduardo “Chapolin” Henrique faced DWCS alum An Tuan Ho on short notice. Chapolin controlled the early exchanges, aided by a controversial knee that went uncalled despite Ho being grounded. He dominated with wrestling and ground damage over two rounds, sweeping the scorecards. The performance did not earn a UFC contract.
The night highlighted the intensity and opportunity of Dana White’s Contender Series. Four fighters now advance toward UFC stardom, while others leave with lessons for the future.
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
