Slovak middleweight Martin Kozak delivered a dominant performance at Dana White’s Contender Series Season 10, Week 5, securing a second-round technical knockout victory over former Bellator competitor Christian Echols on September 8, 2026, at Meta Apex in Las Vegas. The impressive finish likely earned Kozak an invitation to join the UFC roster.
Kozak controlled the opening round with superior range, utilizing his jab and leg kicks to maintain distance from the significantly shorter Echols. Though Echols attempted multiple takedowns and aggressive entries, Kozak successfully defended and executed back-to-back head kicks late in the round that sent his opponent to the canvas. Despite the punishment, Echols survived to the bell, though he also absorbed an unintentional low blow with seconds remaining.
The second round proved decisive. After Echols briefly secured a takedown, Kozak quickly returned to his feet and unleashed a series of devastating body kicks. The accumulated damage forced Echols to drop his hands and expose his head. Kozak capitalized with a right hook that knocked his opponent down, followed by additional ground strikes that prompted the referee to stop the contest at 1:32 of the round.
The victory improved Kozak’s undefeated record to 7-0, with all seven wins coming by finish. Meanwhile, Echols fell to 8-5 and will likely seek opportunities on the regional circuit.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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