Sosa Signs with UFC After Tragic Loss: Shows Resilience in Contender Series

Hecher Sosa Wins UFC Contract After Tragic Loss

Spanish bantamweight fighter Hecher Sosa secured a contract with the UFC at the “Dana White’s Contender Series” event on Tuesday, in a moment of deep sorrow, less than three days after the death of his father. Sosa (14-1) defeated Mackson Lee (9-1) by unanimous decision in the main event of the series held in Las Vegas. The 30-year-old fighter decided to compete despite receiving the news of his father’s death on Sunday morning, who suffered from cancer. This loss adds to that of his sister, who also died from the same disease a year ago.

I can’t speak with my father today, but he is the reason why I am here. He is the reason why I am the man I am, and I will continue to represent him.

Hecher Sosa

Sosa, originally from Arrecife, Spain, revealed that he was informed of his father’s death while in the process of cutting weight for the 135-pound fight. In an Instagram post, he shared that he had doubts about the idea of his father not seeing him compete against White, but ultimately came to the conclusion that “my father told me before I left, ‘son, don’t worry, we started this together and we will finish it together'”.

Sosa dominated the three-round fight against Lee, which led White to immediately sign him with the UFC.

I respect your determination, your resilience, everything you’ve been through in your life. I’m going to give you the opportunity to keep your promises to your family.

Dana White

Sosa hasn’t suffered a defeat since May 2022. Nine of his fourteen professional victories have been by knockout or submission.