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

Every champion in MMA history started out somewhere.

For those who make it to the 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, 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 fight. There are dozens of fighters inches away from making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.

This month:

• A key member of Kings MMA looks to carve his own path to the UFC, where he has cornered many of his teammates.
• A surging yet under-the-radar submission specialist hopes his boxing improvements will earn him an LFA title – and a phone call shortly after.
• An MMA Lab fighter hopes to keep his undefeated record alive as he continues his push toward a major promotion deal.
• After being passed over on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2019, a rising American Kickboxing Academy star is eager to get back in action and punch his ticket to the big show in the process.
• A light heavyweight up-and-comer and member of Factory X looks to capitalize on his biggest opportunity to date: an LFA main event.