Perez wins DWCS contract

Cristian Perez secured his UFC contract after defeating Logan Paxton in Dana White's Contender Series Season 10, Week 2.

“The lesson I learned from my first DWCS fight was not to rush all the time and know how to be smarter when it came time to fighting.”

Perez's recent loss

Perez lost to Manoel Sousa in his Season 9 match, but the defeat has aged well as Sousa has since won two UFC fights.

Perez's debut matchup

Perez will face Kyle Nelson, an eight-year veteran with 12 UFC appearances, at UFC Fight Night: Buckley vs Malott on October 17, 2026.

Nelson's background

Nelson has shifted between lightweight and featherweight before returning to the 155-pound division with a win over Matt Frevola.

Perez's championship goal

Perez aims to become a UFC world champion by climbing the rankings through multiple fights.

“I want to be a UFC world champion.”

Perez's fighting strategy

Perez plans to fight multiple opponents to reach the championship, regardless of the number of matches.

“I would like to fight against everyone to get to the championship.”

Perez's confidence

Perez believes he has the tools to win against Nelson and project himself as a top contender.

“I think I have the correct tools to put on a good show.”

Perez's upcoming fight

Perez will compete against Kyle Nelson at UFC Fight Night: Buckley vs Malott on October 17, 2026 in Edmonton, Canada.