- George Chung
- Aug 27, 2024
- 3 min read
As the combat sports world continues to evolve, few platforms have captured the essence of opportunity like Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS).
Returning for its eighth season in 2024, Dana White's Contender Series 2024 has become the definitive proving ground for MMA fighters seeking a shot at the UFC. With each episode, the stakes are sky-high as fighters battle not just for victory but for a chance to join the ranks of UFC legends.
The 2024 season has already showcased electrifying talent, and the action is far from over. Here’s an in-depth look at what has happened so far and what fans can expect in the coming weeks.
Launched in 2017, Dana White's Contender Series was conceived as a way to discover new talent outside the traditional recruitment methods used by the UFC.
Unlike "The Ultimate Fighter," where fighters live and train together, DWCS focuses purely on in-cage performance. Each week, a handful of prospects face off in front of UFC President Dana White, matchmakers Mick Maynard, and Sean Shelby, who decide who has what it takes to earn a UFC contract.
Over the past seven seasons, DWCS has been a breeding ground for UFC stars. Fighters like Sean O'Malley, who earned his contract in 2017, and Jamahal Hill, who rose to prominence after his appearance in 2019, have gone on to achieve championship status within the UFC. The series has also been pivotal in uncovering hidden gems from various international markets, bringing a diverse array of fighting styles and backgrounds into the UFC.
Season 8 Overview: The Action So Far
The 2024 season of DWCS kicked off on August 13, 2024, and is set to run until October 15. The format remains unchanged, with five fights per episode and contracts awarded based on performance, potential, and sometimes, the intangible "wow" factor that Dana White is known for seeking.
This season has already seen a mix of brutal knockouts, tactical masterclasses, and shocking upsets, all of which have set the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive seasons yet.
Week 1 Highlights (August 13, 2024)
The season began with a bang as fighters like Mansur Abdul-Malik and Lone’er Kavanagh delivered stunning knockouts to secure UFC contracts. Kavanagh, in particular, caught the eye with a first-round KO that has already been replayed countless times on social media
Week 2 (August 20, 2024)
The second week continued the momentum with several international fighters taking center stage. This episode was notable for the flyweight bout between An Tuan Ho and Lone’er Kavanagh, which ended in another highlight-reel KO by Kavanagh, securing his contract(
Week 3 (August 27, 2024)
Week 3 maintained the high level of competition, with Liam Anderson and Andrey Pulyaev headlining the event. Malcolm Wellmaker and Jack Duffy also remained undefeated, making strong cases for why they deserve to be in the UFC
What’s Coming Up?
The excitement is only building as we approach the mid-season. Upcoming bouts are set to feature some of the most anticipated matchups of the season. Key fights to watch include:
Week 4 (September 3, 2024)
This episode will see middleweights Abdellah Er-Ramy face off against Logan Woods, a fight that promises fireworks given both fighters' knockout power.
Week 5 (September 10, 2024)
The spotlight will be on flyweight Anthony Drilich as he takes on Sean Gauci, with both fighters known for their relentless pace and grappling prowess
How to Watch
For fans eager to catch the action live, DWCS is available exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States. International viewers can tune in via local broadcasters or UFC Fight Pass, depending on their region. The series airs every Tuesday evening, making it a weekly must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.
Dana White's Contender Series Season 8 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling yet, with new talent emerging and seasoned prospects fighting for their shot at UFC glory. As the season progresses, expect the competition to heat up even more, with future UFC champions potentially making their first big splash in the Octagon.
