Week 5 of Dana White’s Contender Series delivered an exciting set of bouts, as up-and-coming fighters vied for a coveted UFC contract. The night was headlined by a mix of explosive power, technical precision, and gritty determination, showcasing why this series remains a cornerstone for finding future stars.
In the bantamweight division, Josias Musasa faced off against the relentless Otari Tanzilovi. The fight was a high-energy clash, with Musasa looking to assert dominance early on with sharp striking and aggressive grappling. Tanzilovi, however, showcased impressive resilience, countering Musasa’s advances with strategic defense and pinpoint striking, making it a tightly contested bout until the final bell.
In a thrilling middleweight contest, Yousri Belgaroui was set to face TBD, a last-minute replacement. Despite the uncertainty, Belgaroui remained composed, utilizing his lengthy frame to maintain distance and strike at will. His opponent, though less known, proved to be no pushover, engaging in a back-and-forth that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The lightweight division featured Quemuel Ottoni taking on Kody Steele. Ottoni, known for his aggressive style, didn’t disappoint, pushing the pace from the opening bell. Steele, a well-rounded grappler, found himself on the defensive early, but his grappling credentials kept him in the fight, leading to a grueling match that tested both fighters' endurance and skill.
In the light heavyweight division, Rafael Cerqueira squared off against Francesco Mazzeo. Cerqueira, with his signature Brazilian striking, aimed to overpower Mazzeo, who relied on calculated tactics and ground control to stay competitive. The contrast in styles led to an intriguing chess match of MMA, as Cerqueira looked to land power shots while Mazzeo focused on neutralizing those attempts with takedowns and submission attempts.
Week 5 ended with fighters from all corners of the globe making their mark, and fans were left to wonder who would earn the contracts and take the next step into the UFC.