On the Doorstep: 5 fighters who could make UFC or Bellator with August wins

Every champion in MMA history started out somewhere.

For those who make it to the highest stage, the journey begins 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 – one of which for the second time – return to the cage for what could be their stepping stone fight. There are dozens of fighters close to making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.

This month:

• After four years away, an undefeated flyweight hopes to pick up a win in another exciting fight, like his Dana White’s Contender Series victory in 2017.
• A young Mexican up-and-comer hopes to get on the radar of a major promotion as she seeks her fourth finish in six fights.
• A fan-favorite fighter from Mississippi hopes his unbeaten streak since his UFC release continues with another barn burner at his new weight class.
• A St. Louis plumber struggling to find willing opponents gets a homecoming in his third LFA appearance.
• A Machida brothers underling is ready to write MMA history of his own when he competes for an LFA title.