Bella Mir to fight Alex Apodaca at DWCS 89 for UFC contract

Bella Mir, the unbeaten daughter of former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir, will step into the UFC APEX on August 25 to face Alex Apodaca in the featured women's bantamweight bout at Dana White's Contender Series 89, with a UFC contract on the line.

Mir enters the fight carrying a perfect 4-0 professional record, bringing considerable pedigree and anticipation to the matchup. Dana White has spoken with notable enthusiasm about her development, referencing a mentorship spanning four years and pointing to her ambitions that stretch well beyond MMA — including competitive boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and a stated goal of representing the United States in wrestling at the 2028 Olympics. White also noted that he personally encouraged Mir to finish her college education before turning professional, a milestone she has since completed.

Apodaca comes in with a record of 3-1, offering a legitimate test for Mir at this stage of her career. A strong performance from either fighter on Contender Series carries direct consequence — Dana White uses the platform specifically to identify and sign the sport's rising talent.

Why it matters

• A win could earn Mir an immediate UFC contract and validate her standing as one of the division's most anticipated prospects
• Apodaca's 3-1 record signals she is no hand-picked opponent, giving the result genuine credibility either way
• The women's bantamweight division is historically competitive inside the UFC, making a strong debut showing essential for any newcomer hoping to make an impression
• Mir's crossover profile in combat sports and wrestling adds a broader sporting storyline to what is already a high-profile Contender Series slot