Sundell earns UFC contract after decision over Aline Pereira

Smilla Sundell defeated Aline Pereira by unanimous decision in the Season 10 finale of Dana White’s Contender Series, earning a UFC contract while Pereira left without one. All three judges scored the bout 29-28 for Sundell. The three-round fight took place during Week 10 of the 2026 season at Meta Apex in Las Vegas. Sundell, a former ONE Championship Muay Thai titleholder, pressed forward and kept Pereira on the defensive. Pereira landed counters and recorded a takedown in the third round, but Sundell returned to her feet and maintained pressure through the final bell. Sundell’s signing followed a disagreement over whether she was ready for the UFC. Dana White said he had initially wanted the 21-year-old to gain more experience outside the promotion, while matchmaker Mick Maynard favored signing her. White said Maynard’s view prevailed before welcoming Sundell to the UFC. Sundell said after the fight that her years in combat sports had prepared her for the opportunity. Pereira, 36, entered the bout hoping to earn a contract and was reported to have a 3-3 professional MMA record after the loss.