Portuguese Mario Pinto earned a UFC contract after his dominant performance on Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS) Week 9. Pinto faced Brazil’s Lucas Camacho in a heavyweight bout and secured a knockout victory just 1:43 into the first round. His clean left hook left Camacho unable to continue, marking Pinto’s fifth knockout and improving his professional record to 9-0. His victory was one of four knockouts that night, all of which led to UFC contracts for the winners.

Pinto’s ability to read Camacho’s movements early in the fight showcased his composure and precision, making a powerful statement at the UFC Apex. At 26 years old, his swift win on such a significant platform puts him on the radar as a promising new addition to the UFC’s heavyweight roster, with everyone being left on notice.