Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 12, 2024 5:09 pm GMT
As the excitement builds for Week 6 of Dana White’s Contender Series 72, five emerging mixed martial artists are ready to trade blows for a coveted UFC contract. The competition, flowing live from the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, offers a platform for hopefuls who aspire to reach the pinnacle of MMA as they showcase their talents on a national stage.
Matchups to Watch
This week, the card is packed with intriguing matchups featuring fighters looking to solidify their places in the UFC. Here’s a detailed look at the fighters entering the Octagon this Tuesday:
Lightweights Showdown
Dylan Mantello and Ahmad Suhail Hassanzada kick off the night, both eager to make a strong impression in their second appearances within the Contender Series.
- Dylan Mantello
– Age: 31
– Record: 8-3
– Background: Trains at Longo and Weidman MMA.
– Previous Contender Series Performance: Lost by first-round technical submission to Kaynan Kruschewsky but rebounded with a second-round win.
- Ahmad Suhail Hassanzada
– Nickname: “Lion of the Ring”
– Age: 28
– Record: 11-3
– Previous Contender Series Performance: Lost his previous fight against Nazim Sadykhov.
As both fighters seek redemption after earlier setbacks, the stakes are high in the lightweight division.
Unbeaten Fighters Clash in the Middleweight Division
Two more fights feature emerging talents, including Yura Naito and Ateba Gautier.
- Yura Naito
– Record: 6-0
– Style: Muay Thai
– Background: Has five first-round finishes under the Pancrase banner.
- Ateba Gautier
– Record: 5-1
– Background: Comes into this bout on a four-fight winning streak, with all fights ending in early finishes.
This matchup promises to bring exciting action, with both fighters known for their striking prowess.
Welterweights Face Off
Benjamin Bennett and Joey Hart share identical records at 6-1, making for a competitive welterweight bout.
- Benjamin Bennett
– Background: Notable achievements include winning the 2017 IMMAF World Championships.
– Training Partners: Competes alongside well-known UFC athletes such as Justin Gaethje and Kamaru Usman.
- Joey Hart
– Record: 6-1
– Performance: He has a 100% finishing rate, making him a formidable opponent.
With their fighting styles and credentials, this match is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Heavyweights in the Spotlight
In another highlight, Brazilian heavyweights Talisson Teixeira and Arthur Lopes step into the Octagon, both with dreams of earning a UFC contract.
- Talisson Teixeira
– Age: 24
– Record: 6-0
– Height: 6’7″
– Reach: 83 inches
– Performance: Trains under Lucas Martins, a seasoned UFC veteran.
- Arthur Lopes
– Record: 6-1
– Experience: Recently ended a six-year absence from the sport, returning with a rapid knockout victory.
Both fighters are looking to capitalize on this opportunity, aiming for a decisive victory to impress Dana White.
Exciting Bantamweight Bout
Lastly, Aaron Tau and Elijah Smith will showcase their skills in a bantamweight battle.
- Aaron Tau
– Record: 8-0
– Background: Previously held and defended the XFC bantamweight title.
– Recent Fight: Returned with a second-round stoppage win after a lengthy absence in 2023.
- Elijah Smith
– Record: 6-1
– Background: Son of Ultimate Fighter alum Gilbert Smith Jr.
– Experience: Currently riding a four-fight winning streak.
This matchup not only has stakes for UFC contracts but also offers the narrative of a rising star in Tau against an experienced opponent in Smith.
How to Watch
The excitement for this week’s Dana White’s Contender Series 72 begins at 8 p.m. ET, streaming live on ESPN+. Fans can anticipate a night filled with high-stakes action as these fighters put everything on the line for a chance to compete on the sport’s biggest stage.
Looking Ahead
Dana White’s Contender Series continues to serve as a crucial talent pipeline for the UFC. This season, a total of 20 fighters have already earned their contracts, highlighting the series’ role in identifying and nurturing new talent. With the current season half over, the remaining weeks promise to deliver more thrilling matchups and potential stars for the UFC’s future.
When these fighters enter the Octagon, they are not only facing each other but also fighting their own nerves and dreams. They want to impress the UFC decision-makers and show what they can do. Watch to see who will step up and earn their spot in the UFC!
