DWCS season 9 has gone from a slow start to one of the most violent and action-packed editions in the show’s history. Week 8 at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas added to that reputation, with four stoppages in five fights and another round of UFC contracts handed out.
The season now boasts 28 finishes in 40 fights, and Dana White continues to reward fighters who seize the moment. Tuesday’s card produced highlight-reel performances, with only one winner left without a contract but told to return for another chance.
Damian Pinas closed the show in spectacular fashion, knocking out Vitor Costa in the first round. At just 23 years old and only four years into his MMA journey, the Aruba native fought with poise beyond his experience. Costa came out aggressive, but Pinas remained composed before landing a textbook 1-2 that floored him. “The Babayaga” made his UFC debut official with that knockout, and Dana White had no hesitation in granting him a contract.
Louis Jourdain, the younger brother of UFC veteran Charles Jourdain, delivered in the co-main event. He outstruck Magno Dias early, survived ground exchanges, and took over late. In the third round, Jourdain secured the back and finished with a rear-naked choke to earn his own contract. His performance echoed the same creativity and grit that has become synonymous with his family name.
Christopher Alvidrez also stole the spotlight with a gritty upset win over Eliezer Kubanza. A former standout running back in high school, Alvidrez came out aggressive, pushing the pace and throwing heavy boxing combinations. After hurting Kubanza with a pair of hooks, he swarmed until referee Herb Dean had no choice but to stop the fight. The win sealed Alvidrez’s UFC deal.
The action didn’t stop there. Kurtis Campbell dismantled Demba Seck with a knee and punches in just over a minute, securing his UFC contract as well. The lone fight to go the distance was Rashid Vagabov’s dominant decision win over Paulo Henrique, but it wasn’t enough for a contract this time.
DWCS season 9 continues to prove itself as one of the most ruthless and unforgettable runs in the show’s history, and with two weeks still left, the violence shows no sign of slowing down.
Main Card
Damian Pinas def. Vitor Costa via round-one KO (punch)
Louis Jourdain def. Magno Dias via round-three submission (rear-naked choke)
Christopher Alvidrez def. Eliezer Kubanza via round-one TKO (punches)
Kurtis Campbell def. Demba Seck via round-one TKO (knee and punches)
Rashid Vagabov def. Paulo Henrique via unanimous decision
