Every champion in MMA history started out somewhere.

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

This month, five fighters on the verge of achieving major promotion notoriety – one for the second time – return to the cage for what could be their stepping-stone fight. There are dozens of fighters close to making the jump in the coming weeks, but these five are particularly exemplary.

• A Brazilian-Canadian heavyweight hopes another win will regain him the UFC look he had but lost due to circumstances outside of his control.
• A former Olympic wrestler from Mexico looks to secure an LFA title – and a UFC phone call shortly thereafter.
• One of the best women’s prospects in North America wants to prove a point after a year on the shelf.
• A rising 21-year-old Argentinian superstar aims to bring his record to 11-0 before 2022 comes to an end.
• A Malaysian flyweight who lives in Texas has already made an impact, but a Fury FC title could be his ticket to an even more life-changing upgrade.