Mantas Kondratavicius Defeats Dani Barbir in DWCS 83 Main Event

The seventh week of Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS) featured a highly anticipated middleweight bout between Dani Barbir and Mantas Kondratavicius on September 23, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Both fighters entered the match with impressive records—Barbir at 7-0 and Kondratavicius at 7-1—seeking to secure a UFC contract. The event was broadcast live on ESPN+.

Dana White's Contender Series 83 results: Five winners, one loser earn UFC contractsDani Barbir vs. Mantas Kondratavicius prediction, odds, pick for UFC Contender Series Week 7DWCS Predictions & Week 7 Picks Tonight: 9/23/25

The fight began with both competitors displaying aggression, but it was Mantas Kondratavicius who quickly seized control. Just 66 seconds into the first round, Kondratavicius landed a powerful overhand right that knocked Barbir down, prompting the referee to stop the contest. This victory marked Barbir's first professional loss and showcased Kondratavicius's finishing ability, as he has now finished all eight of his wins, including five by knockout.

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The card also featured other notable bouts. In the featherweight division, Murtazali Magomedov defeated Brahyan Zurcher via TKO in 1:37 of the first round, maintaining his undefeated record at 10-0. Javier Reyes also secured a TKO victory over Justice Torres in 2:31 of the first round. Both Magomedov and Kondratavicius earned UFC contracts following their performances.

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Dana White, the UFC president, was present at the event and made the final decisions regarding contract offers. Following the fights, he extended contracts to six fighters, including Kondratavicius and Magomedov, highlighting their impressive performances.

Dana White's Contender Series 83 results: Five winners, one loser earn UFC contracts

While the event was largely celebrated for its action and the opportunities it provided to fighters, some analysts noted that the quick stoppage in the Barbir-Kondratavicius fight might have left fans wanting more. Critics argued that Barbir, known for his durability, could have continued, suggesting that the referee's decision was premature.

Dani Barbir vs. Mantas Kondratavicius prediction, odds, pick for UFC Contender Series Week 7

There were no significant discrepancies reported regarding the outcomes of the fights. However, some sources highlighted differing opinions on the effectiveness of the referee's intervention in the main event, with some believing it was justified given the nature of the knockout.

Six fighters get UFC contracts Week 7 of Dana White's Contender Series

Following this event, both Mantas Kondratavicius and Murtazali Magomedov will join the UFC roster, where they will have the opportunity to compete against higher-level opponents. The next installment of Dana White's Contender Series will continue to showcase emerging talent in the MMA landscape.

Dana White's Contender Series 83 results: Five winners, one loser earn UFC contracts

• “Mantas Kondratavicius wasted no time getting the job done tonight!” — UFC Social Media

Dana White's Contender Series 83 results: Five winners, one loser earn UFC contracts

• “Kondratavicius landed a massive overhand right that knocked Barbir down and the referee stepped in after just 66 seconds.” — MMA Junkie

Six fighters get UFC contracts Week 7 of Dana White's Contender Series

• “This fight had me on the edge of my seat the entire time,” — Dana White, UFC President

Six fighters get UFC contracts Week 7 of Dana White's Contender Series

This event underscored the ongoing excitement and unpredictability of Dana White's Contender Series, as fighters vie for their chance to make it in the UFC.

Six fighters get UFC contracts Week 7 of Dana White's Contender Series