Ronald Humphrey Has Arrived, and the UFC Welterweight Division Has Been Warned

Ronald 'The Career Ender' Humphrey is officially a UFC fighter, but if his message following the recent episode of Dana White's Contender Series is anything to go by, he has no intention of easing into the welterweight division.

The 25-year-old Humphrey entered the Meta Apex with a perfect 4-0 record and left Las Vegas with a UFC contract after a first-round submission. His career has now produced five finishes, with the welterweight yet to see the third round or the judges' scorecards in his professional career.

That finishing pedigree makes Humphrey an intriguing prospect in the UFC, but what happened after he secured the contract may have been more important. He did not simply celebrate earning his UFC contract - he sent a message to the entire welterweight division.

From Undefeated Prospect to UFC Contract Winner

Ronald Humphrey arrived in the third week of Dana White's Contender Series looking to prove himself. On the regional scene, he had already established himself as one of the most dangerous finishers, but it was time to test that against other UFC hopefuls.

As is the case with other DWCS athletes, Humphrey looked to deliver a dominant performance at the Meta Apex and impress the UFC President. Notably, Humphrey also comes from a fighting family, with his father, the late Ron 'Abongo' Humphrey, being known for his own career that included a stint in Strikeforce. Now, Humphrey is carving his own path in the sport and establishing a legacy of his own.

Facing the 9-2 Alexis Miranda, Humphrey wasted no time in showing the aggression and finishing ability he had developed on the regional scene. That ultimately paid off as 'The Career Ender' secured a rear-naked choke at just 4:03 of the first round - marking the first time that he got a submission victory in his professional career.

Now, Humphrey will get the opportunity to test himself against the deepest pool of talent that he has ever faced in his young career. But this is a challenge that Humphrey fully welcomes.

The Welterweight Division Has Officially Been Warned

Rather than simply thanking White, his coaches and supporters, Humphrey made it clear that this was just the beginning. In a post-fight interview with Laura Sanko, Humphrey let it be known:

"My f**king existence is a declaration to warn any and everybody who's gonna try to stop my title run."

 

There is no mistaking the ambition and goal there. He is yet to make his UFC debut, but he is already focused on a championship run. Humphrey's confidence may eventually be tested, as the UFC's welterweight division is a rather talented one.

At 170 lbs, Humphrey will be met with established contenders, former champions, and dangerous prospects. There are fighters in that division who are capable of testing every aspect of his game, but that is precisely what makes his arrival to the division so exciting.

The UFC welterweight division could certainly use another young fighter who brings about a level of chaos to the promotion. For years, the welterweight division has been one of the UFC's most talented, and it has produced some memorable moments over the years. Now, it has another undefeated fighter who believes he belongs at the very apex of it.

Ronald Humphrey is not arriving in the UFC quietly, and the welterweight division has been put on notice. Now, the only question: Who is going to be brave enough to welcome 'The Career Ender' to the UFC?