An ex-American footballer who has been making a splash in MMA will appear on Dana White’s Contender Series this 12 months.
The UFC’s heavyweight division has been widely criticized in 2026, having fallen from some of the prestigious weight classes to arguably the weakest within the promotion.
Except for the highest names within the division, it’s been on a transparent decline. The rise of Josh Hokit within the UFC and the signing of Gable Steveson have provided hope for fans who wish to see the roster saved.
And one more former American footballer-turned-MMA prospect could possibly be joining them soon enough.
You’re Dana White for the day. Who’s the primary fighter you sign to the UFC? 👀
Former Recent York Jets player Anthony Wint set for Dana White’s Contender Series fight
A lot of statistics show the heavyweight downfall in recent times. There are zero former undisputed champions, just six fighters on winning streaks, and 15 with losing records on the roster.
With that in mind, it’s secure to say that the division requires reinforcements, and no less than one could possibly be coming via Dana White’s Contender Series in 2026.
The UFC’s talent-finding show is back this August, with a bunch of promising prospects gearing up for his or her opportunities to earn a contract on MMA’s biggest stage.
Fighters are beginning to have their spot on DWCS cards confirmed, and amongst them is the Fury Fighting heavyweight champion, Anthony Wint.
MMA Junkie’s Nolan King reported that he’s in line to compete in front of the UFC president, having gone 6-0 within the cage since transitioning from American football.
Wint was a gridiron football linebacker who played the game at Florida International University. He played 4 seasons for the FIU Panthers football team before being signed by the Recent York Jets in 2018.
While he stays relatively inexperienced contained in the cage, Wint has already made an impression amongst fans. He has five finishes in his six wins, most recently knocking out Jamahl Tatum in only 37 seconds to win the Fury Fighting heavyweight title.
With that, many expressed excitement at the potential for seeing the previous American footballer within the UFC soon enough.
“LFG. Literally was just rewatching his fight last night. Dude is an animal.”
“I’m surprised they haven’t signed him directly.”
“Deserved.”
“Athletic freak.”
“Let’s f—ing go!”
“Very athletic, got great power and wrestling. Very high on this guy.”
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