DWCS Week 9 Preview: Magomed Zaynukov’s Hype Meets Lucas Caldas’ KO Streak as Las Vegas Hosts a Can’t-Miss Tryout Night
Prospects take center stage once again as Dana White's Contender Series returns for Contender Series 2025: Week 9 in Las Vegas, Nevada (Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025 — 24:00 GMT). Five high-leverage matchups headline a card that blends undefeated risers, regional champs, and one very buzzy teammate from the lightweight king’s room.
Spotlight: Zaynukov vs. Caldas — violence written all over it
All eyes are on the lightweight showcase Zaynukov vs. Caldas. Russia’s Magomed Zaynukov (7-0) — a training partner from Islam Makhachev’s circle — brings a smothering wrestle-strike game and composure beyond his years. Across from him, Brazil’s Lucas Caldas (6-1) is a first-round finisher with ruthless shot selection and forward pressure.
🚨Islam Makhachev’s TEAMMATE🚨
— SU 🥋 (@Nolimitsu_) October 6, 2025
“ Chanco “ Magomed Zaynukov ……
Will be COMPETING on this Tuesdays #DWCS . pic.twitter.com/1YUj6Bwc4S
Tous les combats qu''il a gagnés, c'est par KO/TKO au 1ᵉʳ round. 🤯🤯🤯
— MMA Prospect (@mma_prospect) October 6, 2025
Lucas Caldas a un striking très agressif, et c'est aussi le cas de son adversaire, Zaynukov (7-0) !
Il y a fort à parier que le combat ne verra pas la décision 🍿#DWCS pic.twitter.com/WSon48cnVt
Other contracts on the line
Flyweight chaos: Junior vs. Rodriguez
Expect pace from the opener Junior vs. Rodriguez, with Mexico’s unbeaten Imanol Rodriguez (5-0) looking to out-scramble Brazil’s seasoned Roque “Junior” Conceição (10-2).
Bantamweight chess match: Luna Martinetti vs. Vologdin
Ecuador’s Adrian Luna Martinetti (16-1) takes on Russia’s Mark Vologdin (12-3-1) in Luna Martinetti vs. Vologdin — a classic striker-grappler tilt that could swing on cage craft and clinch breaks.
Light heavyweight power: Fernandez vs. Pergentino
U.S. prospect Luke Fernandez (5-0) meets Brazil’s Rafael Pergentino (5-0) in Fernandez vs. Pergentino, a collision of unbeaten records where one mistake may be the only opening needed.
Welterweights to watch: Hedrick vs. Felipe Dias
Finally, the welterweight tilt Hedrick vs. Felipe Dias pits American finisher Donavon Hedrick (6-0) against Brazilian veteran Luis Felipe Dias (16-5) — a perfect read on how Contender winners translate to the next level.
Contender Series 2025: Week 9 — Bouts
- Roque “Junior” Conceição vs. Imanol Rodriguez (Flyweight)
- Adrian Luna Martinetti vs. Mark Vologdin (Bantamweight)
- Luke Fernandez vs. Rafael Pergentino (Light Heavyweight)
- Magomed Zaynukov vs. Lucas Caldas (Lightweight)
- Donavon Hedrick vs. Luis Felipe Dias (Welterweight)
FAQ — Contender Series Week 9
When is Contender Series 2025: Week 9?
Week 9 is set for Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, at 24:00 GMT in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Which fight has the most hype?
Magomed Zaynukov vs. Lucas Caldas — an undefeated hammer vs. a first-round KO machine. Don’t blink.
Where can I find the full card with bout pages?
The event hub lists every matchup: Contender Series 2025: Week 9. You can also jump straight to Junior vs. Rodriguez, Luna Martinetti vs. Vologdin, Fernandez vs. Pergentino, and Hedrick vs. Felipe Dias.
For more on the series and how contracts get awarded, visit Dana White’s Contender Series.
