Aline Pereira came up short in her bid to secure a UFC contract, suffering a unanimous decision loss to Smilla Sundell on Dana White’s Contender Series. The defeat marked a significant setback for the Brazilian fighter, who was competing for the opportunity to join the sport’s premier organization.
The loss leaves Pereira with a professional record of 3-3, demonstrating the competitive nature of her journey toward UFC membership. Despite her efforts in the cage, the judges’ scorecards all favored Sundell, eliminating Pereira’s path to a contract on this particular occasion.
Sundell Secures Contract Despite Dana White’s Hesitation
Smilla Sundell’s victory proved decisive in more ways than one. UFC president Dana White initially debated whether to offer Sundell a contract following her performance, but his team ultimately persuaded him to extend the opportunity to the fighter. Sundell expressed relief and gratitude about the outcome, stating: “I was scared but I believe everything happens for a reason and I’m really happy it worked out.”
Pereira’s Connection to UFC Royalty
Aline Pereira’s appearance on the Contender Series adds another chapter to her family’s combat sports narrative. Her brother, Alex Pereira, is a former UFC two-division champion, establishing the family as a notable presence in mixed martial arts. Despite the familial connection to UFC success, Aline was unable to replicate that achievement on this platform, falling to Sundell’s superior performance on the night.