Aline Pereira vs. Smilla Sundell Set for Contender Series Finale Oct. 13

Reports emerged on September 2 that Aline Pereira and Smilla Sundell are being targeted for the season finale of Dana White's Contender Series on October 13 at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, though the matchup has not yet been officially confirmed.

Aline Pereira, the younger sister of UFC light heavyweight contender Alex Pereira, carries a 3-2 professional MMA record into the reported bout. The 36-year-old Brazilian is an established veteran of combat sports, holding Karate Combat championship credentials and entering this potential fight on a five-fight winning streak across disciplines. Her background is rooted in striking, and a Contender Series appearance would mark a significant step in her MMA career.

Her reported opponent, 21-year-old Smilla Sundell, has built early momentum since transitioning to MMA this year. The Swedish muay Thai prodigy went 5-0 as a professional on ONE Championship before making the move to mixed martial arts, and she has wasted no time making an impression, going 2-0 in MMA with both victories coming by TKO.

Why it matters

• The Contender Series finale spot gives both fighters maximum visibility, with UFC contracts typically on the line for winners.
• The stylistic matchup pits a seasoned, experienced striker against a younger, explosive finisher with elite muay Thai credentials.
• A win for either fighter could accelerate her path toward the UFC roster and the women's strawweight or atomweight landscape.
• Pereira's family connection to a prominent UFC name adds another layer of attention to the bout.