Brazilian promise, Zé Delano enchants and signs contract with UFC after victory in Contender Series

Zé Delano is the UFC's newest signing. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

The second chapter of the ninth season of Contender Series finally brought good results for Brazilians. After a frustrating episode the previous week, Zé Delano showed up ready to make his fans and nation proud against Dana White. A heavy favorite among bookmakers, the Rio native defeated Manuel Exposito by unanimous decision.

With a complete and violent performance, the Brazilian combined spinning kicks, powerful punches, and a fierce fight for 15 minutes. Despite not achieving victory quickly, Delano impressed Sean Selby, one of the men responsible for putting together UFC fights.

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"Delano, Sean Selby said you can join the UFC right now and fight anyone in the division. So, I'm not even going to think about it," Dana said in a post-fight interview.

Zé Delano in victory over Manuel Exposito. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

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After learning that he had been hired to join the Ultimate, Delano said that it took a while for him to understand what had really happened.

"I'll be honest, I still can't believe it. When I left the (first) interview, they already said I was in, and (I thought), 'What do you mean, already? I'm really in?' It's still sinking in, but I'm very happy. I just have to thank God for everything he's done and allowed me to live," he declared.

In addition to asking for the opportunity to fight at UFC Rio on October 11, the athlete assured that fans and officials can always look forward to his evolution in the octagon.

"I believe there's a purpose for everything under heaven. God prepared me, made me go through everything I've been through so that when I get to where I am now, I can sustain myself within. You can expect an ever-better, ever-more-mature Zé Delano, and expect lots of shows; you'll really enjoy them," he concluded.

Guilherme Uriel loses contract opportunity after being knocked out

Josh Hokit in victory over Guilherme Uriel. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

An underdog among the bookmakers, but determined to silence his opponent who insulted Brazil, Guilherme Uriel struggled to prevail against Josh Hokit. Dominated in the first round by the American's grappling, 'Urso' arrived exhausted for the second half of the fight and was knocked out by his opponent.

Josh ended up being hired by Dana after, according to the president, capitalizing on opportunities offered during his duel against Guilherme.

Dana hires all winners

Unlike the last chapter, where he only signed two contracts, this time Dana White liked what he saw in the Octagon. All five winners secured future professional appearances in the UFC.

José Delano, featherweight (up to 65,7 kg.)

Cam Rowston middleweight (up to 83,9kg.)

Louis Lee Scott bantamweight (up to 61,2 kg.)

Josh Hokit heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg)

Ramiro Jimenez featherweight (up to 65,7kg.)