–For those who make it to MMA’s highest stage, the journey starts long before they strap on UFC or Bellator gloves. Modern-era fighters progress through the regional ranks with hopes of accomplishing the highest accolades. Many will try, but few will succeed.

This month, five fighters on the verge of achieving major-promotion notoriety return to the cage for what could be their final stepping-stone fights. There are dozens of fighters inches away from making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.

This month:

• After a DWCS opportunity fell through, a North Carolinian hopes his regional fight will be an unofficial tryout.
• One of Canada’s top pound-for-pound fighters travels south of the border to fight for a CFFC title.
• A young heavyweight training under a former Demetrious Johnson coach makes his 205-pound debut.
• An integral member of Kings MMA hopes to pave his own UFC path with an LFA title win.
• Once again a free agent, one of the United States’ top flyweights returns to Titan FC with the hopes of showing out for the UFC.