George Mangos Set for Dana White’s Contender Series Debut

From Aussie Prospect to UFC Hopeful

George Mangos has long been touted as one of Australia’s most exciting MMA prospects, now he’s just one win away from turning that potential into a UFC contract.

The 7–0 featherweight will make his highly anticipated debut on Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS) on August 12, taking on Canadian standout Radley Da Silva (7–1) in what’s being dubbed a battle between two regional kings. The bout headlines the opening week of the 2025 DWCS season.

“He’s good, but I’m better,” Mangos told the Australian MMA Podcast. “This is the best I’ve ever felt, everything’s riding on this, and I’m ready.”

The Stakes: One Shot, One Opportunity

DWCS has launched the careers of some of Australia’s best fighters, including Jack Della Maddalena, Jimmy Crute, and Jack Jenkins. Mangos is well aware of the pressure.

“It’s exciting, but everything rides on this. If there’s ever a time to mess up, it’s not now.”

The Contender Series isn’t just about winning, it’s about impressing. Dana White will be cageside, deciding whether Mangos walks away with a UFC contract or returns to the regional grind. But pressure isn’t a problem for Mangos, who has finished all 13 of his amateur and pro fights combined.

Facing the “Canadian George Mangos”

Mangos’ opponent, Radley DaSilva, is no pushover. A multiple-time regional champion, he’s currently riding a win streak and brings a well-rounded game into the cage.

“He [Da Silva] is dangerous everywhere, I can’t switch off for a second. But I’ve been preparing for months, and I’m going to hurt him early.”

Mangos says he expects to drop DaSilva on the feet and finish with a submission, a bold prediction, but one that reflects his confidence heading into the biggest fight of his life.

Preparation, Pressure, and Perspective

Mangos has left no stone unturned in his training camp, pushing harder than ever under the guidance of coach Luke Pezzutti and a tight-knit team at Lions Den Academy

“We’ve upped everything, training, recovery, mindset. This is the best I’ve ever been, and I’m peaking at the right time.”

The 21-year-old will be supported by his family and coaches in Las Vegas, while back home in Australia, a watch party will take place at his gym. Mangos is also flying the flag for Greek-Australians, proudly embracing both parts of his heritage.

The Aussie UFC Pipeline

With fellow Australian and teammate Marwan Rhaiki also expected to feature on this DWCS season, Mangos could be leading the next wave of Aussie talent heading to the UFC. And if he wins on August 12, he could soon be joining the likes of Jack Della Maddalena, Cody Haddon, and Quillan Salkilld in the UFC spotlight.

“It doesn’t even feel like an opportunity, it just feels like the fight that was meant to happen.”

Final Words from Mangos

“Tune in. That’s all I ask. You’ll see exactly why people are saying Mangos season is here.”

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