League: UFC Sport: MMA Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Ian Escuza wins Contender Series fight with illegal knee, gets UFC contract

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Sep 30, 2026

Ian Escuza wins Contender Series fight with illegal knee, gets UFC contract

Summary

On September 29, Ian Escuza scored a knockout over Luca Borando in just 32 seconds during Dana White's Contender Series at Meta APEX in Las Vegas. The victory typically secures a UFC contract, and Escuza was awarded one despite landing an illegal knee on the downed Borando. UFC referee Herb Dean and the Nevada State Athletic Commission ruled the fight a win for Escuza after reviewing the incident, triggering significant controversy. UFC CEO Dana White criticized Dean's decision, indicating a need for improved officiating and training in the sport.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Fight took place on September 29 during Dana White's Contender Series
•Escuza knocked out Borando in 32 seconds
•An illegal knee was landed during the knockout sequence
•Herb Dean officiated and ruled Escuza the winner
•Dana White criticized Dean's handling of the situation

Latest Updates

7:00 AMYahoo Sports — Herb Dean’s Fault! Contender Series Fighter Wins Fight Via Illegal Knee, Gets Contract Anyway

What they're saying

"
Veteran UFC referee Herb Dean is once again at the center of a controversy. On Tuesday, Peru’s Ian Escuza scored a quick knockout over Luca Borando, stopping his opponent in just 32 seconds. That’s the exact kind of victory that typically earns an up-and-coming talent a UFC contract, and indeed, Escuza walked away as the […]
— Yahoo Sports

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