Dana White’s Contender Series Season 9, Week 3: All Five Fighters Earn UFC Contracts

Week 3 of Dana White’s Contender Series carried the same theme as the week prior at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, NV. Highlight-reel finishes, breakout performances, and UFC contracts handed out across the board. On Tuesday night, all five winners impressed UFC CEO Dana White enough to earn their ticket to the big show.

Ryan Gandra Dominates Main Event

In the featured bout, Ryan Gandra showcased his explosive striking, overwhelming Trent Miller with a relentless barrage of punches. Miller tried to weather the storm, but Gandra’s power was too much. Referee Mark Smith stepped in at 2:51 of Round 1, sealing Gandra’s seventh consecutive win and a UFC contract.

Marcio Barbosa Adds Another First-Round KO

Brazil’s Marcio Barbosa lived up to his reputation as a fast starter, earning his 16th career finish 15 of them in the first round. He floored Damon Wilson with heavy hooks late in Round 1 (4:14), proving too sharp and powerful for the durable Wilson. The emphatic stoppage made Barbosa another easy contract recipient.

Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev Wastes No Time

Perhaps the most dominant performance of the night came from Abdul-Rakhman Yakhyaev, who extended his undefeated record to 7–0 by stopping Alik Lorenz in just 30 seconds. Yakhyaev stormed forward with lightning-fast punches, never giving Lorenz a chance to settle. The blitz made him an undeniable choice for a UFC deal.

Manoel Sosa Rallies for Comeback Win

The lone fight to leave the first round turned into the card’s most dramatic story. Manoel Sosa overcame early dominance from Cristian Perez, who used takedowns and aggressive grappling to control the opening two rounds. By Round 3, Perez was gassed, and Sosa turned the tide, landing heavy shots until the referee stopped it at the 3:00 mark. The comeback earned him both a UFC contract and major respect.

Donte Johnson Stuns Heavyweight Giant

The card opened with fireworks as Donte Johnson dismantled towering heavyweight Darion Abbey in just 64 seconds. Despite giving up size and reach, Johnson dropped Abbey early and poured on punches to force the stoppage. The quick finish was more than enough for White to sign him on the spot.