A new threat has joined the UFC light heavyweight division.

The tenth season of Dana White’s Contender Series recently wrapped up with four prospects landing contracts after their victories inside the Meta Apex on Tuesday.

A total of 46 fighters earned UFC deals during the 10-episode season, equaling the show’s all-time record. One man who did not get the chance to impress on DWCS is Ivan Gnizditskiy.

Fortunately for the Russian, he did not end up needing to fight in front of White to pave his way to the Octagon.

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Ivan Gnizditskiy gets fast-tracked to the UFC after missing out on a DWCS opportunity

A big fight is coming up in the light heavyweight division, with former champion Jiri Prochazka headlining UFC Qatar against Navajo Stirling on November 21.

Soon after they battle in a potential title eliminator, a newcomer at 205 pounds will be looking to make a splash in his debut, which also takes place in the Middle East a couple of weeks later.

MMA Junkie revealed on Thursday that Gnizditskiy has been signed by the UFC. The 7-0 Russian prospect was initially slated to fight for a contract on DWCS against Nell Ariano but had to withdraw due to visa issues.

The 30-year-old gained prominence with a brief stint under the ONE Championship banner in 2025, where he recorded back-to-back knockouts in round one.

Gnizditskiy has maintained a 100 percent finishing rate in professional MMA, a trend he will attempt to continue at UFC Riyadh on December 5.

Crown Sports Management announced that debut date in a post on social media after his signing was first reported. Gnizditskiy has yet to have his first UFC opponent confirmed.

In addition to his MMA exploits, the Russian has also fought in caged boxing and bare-knuckle.

The UFC Riyadh card is still coming together, but it was recently revealed that Israel Adesanya’s return will headline it. The former two-time middleweight champion is set to face Shara Magomedov in Saudi Arabia.