On a Tuesday night at the UFC Apex, Dana White’s Contender Series 65 lit up the Octagon with a display of talent, heart, and a few unexpected twists. MMA News7 was there to capture all the electrifying moments.
Dana White’s Contender Series serves as the proving ground for emerging fighters, where the promise of a UFC contract is on the line. With UFC CEO Dana White overseeing the proceedings, fighters enter the cage with dreams of making it to the big stage.
In the ninth episode of Season 7, eight fighters clashed for a shot at UFC glory. The highlight of the four-bout card was the light heavyweight showdown between Rodolfo Bellato (11-2) and Murtaza Talha (6-1).
Bellato and Talha put on a thrilling display of determination and skill, engaging in a tenacious battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, it was Bellato who emerged triumphant, securing a UFC contract with a second-round TKO stoppage.
Bellato was not the sole recipient of Dana White’s generosity that night. Bantamweight Victor Hugo, light heavyweight Magomed Gadzhiyasulov, and welterweight Mauricio Ruffy also impressed with their performances and received offers to join the prestigious UFC roster.
In a heartwarming turn of events, even the fighters who fell short were not overlooked. Jose Medina, despite his loss to Gadzhiyasulov, was recognized for his unwavering effort and competitive spirit, earning himself a well-deserved contract.
The final results from Dana White’s Contender Series 65 were as follows:
- Rodolfo Bellato def. Murtaza Talha via TKO (punches) – Round 2, 4:46
- Victor Hugo def. Eduardo Torres Caut via submission (kneebar) – Round 2, 2:16
- Magomed Gadzhiyasulov def. Jose Medina via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
- Mauricio Ruffy def. Raimond Magomedaliev via TKO (ground-and-pound) – Round 3, 4:45
While some fights were a bit slower-paced, they all showcased the incredible determination and grit of these rising stars in the MMA world. Dana White’s Contender Series continues to be a platform where dreams come true, and these fighters have taken their first step towards realizing their aspirations on the grandest stage in the sport.
Raimond Magomedaliev faced Mauricio Ruffy
Round 1 saw a clash of styles as Raimond Magomedaliev adopted a more traditional approach while Mauricio Ruffy stood firm in a karate stance. Magomedaliev initiated aggression, landing a few strikes, but Ruffy skillfully evaded most of his blows. Ruffy managed to score with a leg kick, but Magomedaliev responded with one of his own. The round ended with both fighters trading combinations and kicks, earning a narrow 10-9 edge for Magomedaliev.
Round 2 continued at a measured pace, with both fighters showcasing caution. While Ruffy displayed aggression, neither fighter could land significant blows. However, in the closing moments of the round, Magomedaliev connected with a combination, prompting Ruffy to clinch. As the round concluded, Ruffy landed a spinning elbow, securing a 10-9 round in his favor.
The final round witnessed Ruffy’s aggressive approach, targeting Magomedaliev’s leg with kicks that left his opponent visibly hobbled. A clash of heads caused a cut on Magomedaliev’s face, intensifying the drama. Despite his limited mobility, Magomedaliev attempted a takedown but absorbed more damage from Ruffy’s relentless strikes. The fight reached its climax as Ruffy mounted Magomedaliev, delivering a barrage of ground-and-pound strikes. Referee Eric McMahon gave Magomedaliev multiple opportunities, but the resilient fighter couldn’t escape. Ultimately, McMahon intervened, signaling the end of the contest.
Result: Mauricio Ruffy def. Raimond Magomedaliev via TKO (ground-and-pound) – Round 3, 4:45
Records: Raimond Magomedaliev (10-2), Mauricio Ruffy (9-1)
Division: Welterweight
Broadcast: ESPN+
Referee: Eric McMahon
Magomed Gadzhiyasulov faced Jose Daniel Medina
In another compelling bout, Magomed Gadzhiyasulov faced off against Jose Daniel Medina. The first round showcased Gadzhiyasulov’s superior size and power as he delivered a head kick and a series of leg kicks, leaving Medina with bloodied cheeks. Medina, however, displayed his resilience and continued to engage with a smile. Gadzhiyasulov’s control of the octagon, along with his well-placed strikes, earned him a 10-9 advantage in the round.
Round 2 witnessed Gadzhiyasulov’s focus and versatility, frequently switching stances. Medina, despite his best efforts, struggled to find his footing. Gadzhiyasulov showcased a diverse striking arsenal, landing leg kicks and utilizing a unique side kick to keep Medina within striking range. Although Medina landed a few shots and a late elbow, Gadzhiyasulov’s dominance led to a 20-18 scorecard after two rounds.
The final round was a testament to Medina’s heart and determination as he connected with a powerful left hand and defended Gadzhiyasulov’s takedowns, even landing some elbows from the bottom. However, Gadzhiyasulov secured a late takedown, and the fight ended with him in control. The judges rendered a unanimous decision in favor of Gadzhiyasulov, with all three scoring it 30-27.
Result: Magomed Gadzhiyasulov def. Jose Medina via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Records: Magomed Gadzhiyasulov (8-0), Jose Medina (11-3)
Division: Light heavyweight
Broadcast: ESPN+
Referee: Jason Herzog
Victor Hugo faced Eduardo Torres Caut
In a remarkable display of technique, Victor Hugo faced Eduardo Torres Caut. In Round 1, Torres Caut briefly took Hugo’s back against the fence, but Hugo executed a takedown and ended up in Torres Caut’s butterfly guard. A scramble ensued, with Hugo attempting a heel hook and transitioning to a calf slicer. Torres Caut narrowly escaped the submission attempt. The round concluded with the fighters staring each other down, earning Hugo a 10-9 round.
Round 2 saw Hugo attempting another takedown, this time securing it. He capitalized on the opportunity, locking in a kneebar, causing Torres Caut to submit.
Result: Victor Hugo def. Eduardo Torres Caut via submission (kneebar) – Round 2, 2:16
Records: Eduardo Torres Caut (17-2), Victor Hugo (24-4)
Division: Bantamweight
Broadcast: ESPN+
Referee: Eric McMahon
Rodolfo Bellato and Murtaza Talha
The night’s main event featured a light heavyweight clash between Rodolfo Bellato and Murtaza Talha. Round 1 witnessed Bellato’s leg kicks and aggressive strikes. Talha initiated clinches and attempted takedowns, but Bellato responded with Thai clinch knees. Both fighters landed solid blows, with Talha ending the round strongly. The judges awarded Talha a 10-9 round.
Round 2 witnessed Bellato’s leg kicks causing significant damage to Talha. In a desperate attempt, Talha went for a takedown, but Bellato thwarted it and aimed for an anaconda choke. Talha survived the submission attempt, but Bellato’s relentless strikes battered him. Referee Jason Herzog stepped in, ending the fight in favor of Bellato.
Result: Rodolfo Bellato def. Murtaza Talha via TKO (punches) – Round 2, 4:46
Records: Rodolfo Bellato (11-2) vs. Murtaza Talha (6-1)
Division: Light heavyweight
Broadcast: ESPN+
Referee: Jason Herzog
