On The Doorstep: 5 fighters who could make UFC or Bellator with October wins

For those who make it to MMA’s highest stage, the journey starts long before they strap on UFC or Bellator gloves. Modern-era fighters progress through the regional ranks with hopes of accomplishing the highest accolades. Many will try, but few will succeed.

This month, five fighters on the verge of achieving major-promotion notoriety return to the cage for what could be their stepping-stone fights. There are dozens of fighters inches away from making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.

This month:

• Two LFA 93 headliners will try to derail each other’s winning streaks en route to a potential major promotional ticket-punching victory.
• One of Texas’ top prospects looks to break through perennial “on the bubble” status by earning a CFFC title.
• A Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus aims to continue his career comeback with a win in his home region.
• A Mexican-born Canadian resident will fight in the middle of her two represented countries when she makes her LFA debut.