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Dana White signs four new fighters to UFC but rejects Khabib Nurmagomedov’s prospect

Originally posted on HITC | By Jordan Ellis | Last updated Oct 1, 2025 10:25 AM ET

Dana White handed out four contracts after the most recent episode of the Contender Series.

Damian Pinas, Louis Jourdain, Christopher Alvidrez, and Kurtis Campbell have all joined MMA’s premier promotion after impressing the UFC boss on Tuesday night.

The only winner left without a contract came from Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team. Rashid Vagabov (14-2), who went into the night as the heaviest favourite, controlled every round but didn’t manage to secure a finish.

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s prospect overlooked by Dana White

Dana White wasn’t too impressed with Rashid Vagabov, especially after the lightweight spent part of his fight trying to chat with him from the cage.

The 27-year-old had a strong showing early on before taking over with his wrestling. He picked up a clear 30-27 decision, but it wasn’t enough to sway White.

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

“Let’s start with Rashid,” White said as he started handing out UFC contracts post-fight.

“7-1 favorite, talking to me during the fight, telling me you’re going to be a world champion, while you’re having a tough time beating the guy who was a 7-1 underdog.

“Not tonight, my friend. Maybe again. You’re obviously a talented guy. “Get back in the gym, and maybe we’ll see you again. You’re young.”

Contender Series S9 W8 results

Dana White signed four fighters to the UFC during the latest episode of the Contender Series. Damian Pinas, Louis Jourdain, Christopher Alvidrez, and Kurtis Campbell have all joined MMA’s premier promotion after impressing the UFC boss on Tuesday night.

The only winner who didn’t get a contract was from Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s team. Rashid Vagabov (14-2) won every round but failed to find a finish as the biggest favourite on the card.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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