TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian mixed martial arts fighter Bilal Hasan has earned a UFC contract after stopping India’s Mridul Saikia by TKO in just 45 seconds at Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS) Season 10 in Las Vegas on Wednesday, Indonesia time.
According to Antara, Bilal dropped Saikia with a powerful right overhand before finishing the fight with a barrage of ground strikes, prompting referee Herb Dean to stop the bout 45 seconds into the opening round.
Bilal initially targeted Saikia’s left leg with a low kick. When Saikia attempted to respond with a low kick of his own, Bilal quickly countered with the right hand that sent his opponent to the canvas.
Bilal then unleashed a series of ground strikes. Saikia was unable to defend himself for several seconds, forcing Dean to intervene and award Bilal the first-round TKO victory.
“Indonesia, thank you for all your support. Alhamdulillah, we got the win tonight. God willing, we can fight again soon. Thank you so much. I love you all,” Bilal said in a video posted on the official UFC Indonesia Instagram account.
The victory extended Bilal’s professional record to 9-0, with one no contest, including eight wins by stoppage.
Dana White Welcomes Bilal to UFC
Bilal’s performance also impressed UFC President and CEO Dana White, who praised the Indonesian fighter after the bout.
“I’m very impressed with you. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. And yeah, I can’t wait to see your first fight in the UFC. Welcome,” White told Bilal.
Bilal becomes the second Indonesian fighter in UFC history to earn an official UFC contract.
Jeka Saragih was the first Indonesian to secure a UFC deal, earning his contract through the Road to UFC tournament in February 2023.
Bilal’s contract was one of four awarded during DWCS Season 10.
Anthony Wint earned a deal after stopping Matt Adams by TKO in 34 seconds, while Thomas Pagliarulo secured a contract after defeating Ananias Mulumba by third-round TKO.
Joe Kropschot was also awarded a UFC contract after beating Jon Kunneman by unanimous decision, 30-27, 30-27, 29-28.
