Akbar Abdullaev earns UFC contract with 19-second knockout
Sherdog • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 2:43 AM
Last updated Sep 16, 2026
Akbar Abdullaev knocked out Ednilson Barros Santos just 19 seconds into their lightweight matchup on Week 6 of Dana White’s Contender Series 2026, securing a contract with the UFC. Abdullaev, now 14-0, became the first Kyrgyz fighter to earn a UFC deal. UFC CEO Dana White praised him, calling him possibly the greatest prospect in the series' history. The 28-year-old is eager to make his UFC debut and is ready to compete as early as October or November.
- •Abdullaev delivers a knockout after just 19 seconds.
- •He improves his record to 14-0 with this victory.
- •Dana White describes him as a top prospect in DWCS history.
- •Abdullaev aims to fight in the UFC by late 2026.
- •He becomes the first Kyrgyz fighter to secure a UFC contract.
- 2:43 AMSherdog — Akbar Abdullaev lands UFC deal with vicious 19-second knockout
"Akbar Abdullaev always knew he was meant to be in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
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