Kevin Lee is determined to make his way back into the UFC, so much so that he was willing to take an unconventional route—competing on Dana White’s Contender Series.
The former interim title challenger had his second shot with the UFC in July 2023 but suffered a swift defeat, losing to Rinat Fakhretdinov in just 55 seconds at UFC Vegas 76.
Since then, the “Motown Phenom” has been sharpening his skills at Kill Cliff FC and even approached UFC matchmakers with an idea: he was willing to fight on the Contender Series to prove he’s serious about his future in the sport.
“I’m open to doing grappling matches and other things, but my real passion is MMA,” Lee said during an appearance on the Anik & Florian podcast.
“I want to compete again. To show how committed I am, I told Sean Shelby I’d fight on Dana White’s Contender Series to prove I’m still capable of competing at the highest level.”
Lee emphasized that his next fight won’t be about money. It’s about proving his body can withstand the pressures of top-tier competition.
Despite his willingness, the UFC matchmakers, particularly Shelby, declined the offer.
“He said no, but I was ready to do it,” Lee revealed. “The pay is $5,000 flat. You’re losing money at that point, but I was still willing to do it.”
Whether it’s with the UFC, PFL, ONE, or another organization, Lee is waiting for the next opportunity. “Whatever promotion calls first, I’m ready to sign that deal,” he added.