As the UFC begins the ESPN era, the level of talent competing inside the Octagon is at an all-time high, and while there are many established contenders and familiar names populating the various weight classes, one of the most exciting things to watch this year will be the emergence of the next wave of talent rising through the ranks.
Every year, fresh names enter the fold, establishing themselves as future contenders or even title challengers from out of nowhere, and prior to every event, this series will shine a spotlight on three athletes set to step into the Octagon with designs on becoming one of those fighters.