White On Contender Series Signee: 'Greatest Talent' Ever

Dana White believes the UFC just signed the best prospect in Contender Series history.

White awarded Akbar Abdullaev a contract Tuesday night after the fighter landed a 20-second knockout on the show's latest card, MMA Mania reports. The UFC president went all-in on his evaluation of the finish and the fighter behind it.

"I don't even know what to say," White said after the bout. "That punch sounded like a baseball bat. I'm going to go out on a limb here and call you possibly the greatest talent that's ever been on the show in ten years. I think that you're going to be a huge superstar and a very big threat in this sport."

Abdullaev Arrives From One Championship

Abdullaev was considered an uncrowned champion during his time with One Championship before making the jump to the UFC developmental series. The power he displayed Tuesday matched White's expectations for what a future contender looks like at the entry level.

White closed his post-fight remarks by welcoming Abdullaev to the roster and saying he cannot wait to see him compete again. No opponent or date for his official UFC debut has been announced.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Dana White labels new Contender Series signee ‘greatest talent that’s ever been on the show’