Before the final fight of week 9, fans were already sure that they had seen the best fight of the week, maybe even the year, in the co-main event of Dana White’s Contender Series Season 9. On the DWCS 85 main card, Ecuador’s Adrian Luna Martinetti faced Russia’s Mark Vologdin in the co-main event. It was a massive opportunity for both fighters to earn a UFC contract, and they delivered an unforgettable 15-minute barnburner.

Although Martinetti emerged victorious, White awarded both fighters UFC contracts — along with a hefty $25,000 bonus, something that doesn’t usually happen. Still, as these two stole the spotlight, two other promising stars were waiting for their chance to shine. 

Dana White’s Contender Series fighters stay motivated despite missing out on bonus 

One of the most promising fighters of the night was Luke Fernandez, who opened the event with a vicious knockout over Rafael Pergentino in a light heavyweight bout. After earning his UFC contract, he told Laura Sanko in his post-fight interview, “It’s surreal. I mean, I have dreamed of this conversation, having this interview afterwards, getting my contract, and to be here is just a whole different experience. It’s awesome, I’m just taking it all in.”

Fernandez definitely aced his first big test. But that’s not all! The undefeated American also revealed that he plans to get right back into the gym, preparing for a quick turnaround in his next fight. He added, “I’m gonna be back in the gym. So, look to see me soon back in action. Because I gotta get back to work, and I don’t get paid by the minute. That’s why we get out there and get the job done as fast as we can.”  Well, that’s one determined star ready to take his first big leap. And he’s not alone.

In 2017, Dana White launched Dana White’s Contender Series to give rising MMA fighters a platform to prove themselves. Since then, the show has produced stars like Sean O’Malley and Jamahal Hill, becoming a true pathway for future champions. Even in 2025, the series continues to showcase incredible talent with the potential to elevate the UFC to new heights. Look at this Brazilian prospect for example.

Brazil’s Luis Felipe Dias faced Donavon Hedrick in a middleweight bout and shocked everyone with his incredible BJJ skills, securing a rear-naked choke victory and the contract of his life. Like Fernandez, he didn’t receive a bonus, but the Brazilian was clearly inspired and motivated to begin his journey in the UFC’s Apex.

Dias told Laura Sanko through an interpreter, “I could totally understand. It’s been three years without fighting. Obviously, I was a bit lost at the start of the fight, but I’ll tell you what, with this contract, you can be sure that I’ll be putting on a show, and I’m gonna be putting on a lot of shows.”

These are definitely some amazing talents, looking forward to making it big in the UFC. But we’re not done yet. There’s one more rising star — trained by a former two-division UFC champion — who also earned a contract. Let’s take a look at his thoughts as well.

Imanol Rodriguez finally enters the promotion 

Imanol Rodriguez was part of Daniel Cormier’s The Ultimate Fighter Season 33, where he was seen as one of the dark horses to potentially win the show. However, the Mexican prospect ended up losing to Joseph Morales, marking the end of his TUF journey. Still, did that mean his dream of entering the UFC was over? Not quite.

Rodriguez returned at DWCS 2025: Week 9 to face Roque Conceição — and what followed was nothing short of spectacular. The 25-year-old landed a thunderous uppercut in the second round to secure a knockout victory. After earning both the win and a UFC contract, he gave full credit to his mentor, Daniel Cormier, and even promised to return at UFC 322, set to take place on November 15.

In his post-fight interview with Laura Sanko, Rodriguez said, “I want to fight Nov. 15 (at UFC 322 in New York). This is the start of a new era. (Daniel Cormier) is the best coach. You can count on these boys. We’re going to tear up every division.” Well, the Madison Square Garden card is already shaping up to be one of the best of the year, with Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena headlining, along with a stacked undercard. Now, adding a DWCS contract winner like Rodriguez would make it even more exciting.

However, since Rodriguez just competed, it’s unlikely Dana White would book him on such a stacked card right away. That said, what do you think about the talent on display on this season of Dana White’s Contender Series? Do we have the next generation stars lined up already? Let us know in the comments section below.