UFC's first father-daughter fighter duo within reach as Bella Mir eyes contract

The UFC is on the verge of making history with its first father-daughter fighter duo.

Bella Mir, 23, the daughter of former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir, 47, is set to compete on Dana White's Contender Series, where a strong performance could earn her a UFC contract.

Bella, who debuted in 2020 and holds an unbeaten record of four wins, will face Alex Apodaca (3-1) in the third week of DWCS Season 10 on Aug. 25. Fighters who impress on the Contender Series are offered the chance to sign with the UFC.

A former NCAA wrestling champion who also trains in jiu-jitsu, Bella relies on grappling as her primary weapon — just like her father. She has finished her last three bouts by first-round submission and recently competed in UFC BJJ 9, the UFC's jiu-jitsu tournament, winning by submission there as well.

The UFC, founded in 1993 and now in its 33rd year, has yet to see a fighter follow a parent onto its roster. Should Bella earn a spot, she would set an all-time first in the organization's history.

Ryan Couture, son of former heavyweight champion Randy Couture, is an MMA fighter but competed in Bellator and other promotions rather than the UFC. Mia Lesnar, daughter of former heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar, is an imposing shot put athlete with no MMA background. Callum Bisping, son of former middleweight champion Michael Bisping, practices wrestling and combat sports but has yet to make his UFC debut.

Bella grew up immersed in wrestling and grappling from an early age. Frank Mir was initially reluctant to see his daughter pursue MMA, but eventually gave his blessing on the condition that she first complete her education.