Đani Barbir, one of Croatia’s most promising MMA talents, is officially set to compete on Dana White’s Contender Series, a UFC-backed platform where rising fighters battle for the ultimate prize: a UFC contract.
With an unblemished professional record of 7 wins, 0 losses, Barbir has quickly built a reputation in the middleweight division as a dangerous and well-rounded competitor. Known for his powerful striking, sharp technique, and calm presence inside the cage, he’s now been recognized as a fighter worth watching, and potentially signing.
Barbir’s inclusion in the Contender Series marks a major milestone not just in his career, but for Croatian MMA as a whole. While the country has produced standout fighters in the past, Đani is among a new generation aiming to make waves on the international stage.
Launched in 2017, Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS) is a weekly event held in Las Vegas, where hand-picked fighters from around the world compete in front of UFC President Dana White and the UFC matchmakers. But unlike standard fight cards, the stakes in DWCS are unique, it’s not enough to simply win. Fighters must perform, impress, and show potential to receive that coveted UFC contract.
Some of today’s top UFC names, like Sean O’Malley, Jamahal Hill, and Jack Della Maddalena, got their big break through DWCS. It’s a platform that rewards talent, hunger, and finishing ability, exactly the traits Đani has shown throughout his career.
For Đani, this is more than just another fight. It’s a chance to prove that he belongs among the elite. The Contender Series doesn’t offer second chances, fighters step into the Octagon knowing they may only get one shot to earn the attention of Dana White and secure a UFC contract.
With his undefeated record and growing fanbase back home, Đani Barbir now carries the hopes of Croatian MMA onto one of the sport’s most visible stages. If he delivers the kind of performance fans have come to expect from him, we could soon see another Croatian flag flying in the UFC.