Dana White’s Contender Series Reached Week Eight
The 10th season continues this week at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas with five scheduled bouts.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
Live Poll
Do you believe developmental league fighters should be evaluated primarily on their current skill levels?
Local fight fans see the next wave of talent as Dana White’s Contender Series moves into its eighth week of the 10th season. Five fights are set for the card at the UFC Apex, where participants compete for a professional contract with the UFC.
Why it matters
The series serves as a primary pipeline for fighters aiming to join the UFC roster, with the 10-week season providing a showcase for rising prospects. George Staines enters the cage with an undefeated 10-0 record as he looks to secure a promotion to the major league.
Five individual fights are scheduled for the week eight card as part of the 10-week series season. Undefeated lightweight George Staines, 26, enters the event with a 10-0 record.
The players
George Staines
The 26-year-old lightweight fighter holds an undefeated 10-0 MMA record and previously competed in Cage Warriors.
Loai Abushaar
The opponent scheduled to face George Staines in a lightweight bout during week eight.
Paddy Pimblett
A 31-year-old fighter who trains at Next Generation MMA in Liverpool and recently defeated Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329.
The details
Fighters on the card are competing to impress management and earn a contract with the UFC. The week eight event features a lightweight bout between George Staines and Loai Abushaar at the UFC Apex. Staines, a 26-year-old formerly of the Cage Warriors promotion, is widely expected to be among those vying for a roster spot.
Timeline
The 10th season of the series began in August 2026.
Week eight of the series takes place on September 29, 2026.
Beyond the Strip
This series serves as the primary gateway to the main UFC stage seen during events like UFC 329. It follows the pattern of established developmental leagues by providing a platform for local and international prospects to earn their way into the professional ranks.
Residents attending the event at the UFC Apex should account for local traffic around the facility. Fans should check the official broadcast schedule for any last-minute adjustments to the fight order on September 29.
The takeaway
The series remains the most direct route for fighters to enter the UFC roster. Fans should watch for the performance of George Staines as he aims to improve his 10-0 record during the week eight card.
Further reading
For more on the local fight scene, visit the Mixed Martial Arts section.
Live Poll
Do you believe developmental league fighters should be evaluated primarily on their current skill levels?
