Who is Sal Everett? Dana White’s UFC security guard earns contract after stunning Contender Series KO win over Ozzy Martin

Salhahuddin “Sal” Everett has completed an incredible journey from working as a security guard for the UFC to becoming a UFC-contracted fighter. The Las Vegas native earned his contract after knocking out Ozzy Martin on Season 10, Episode 9 of Dana White’s Contender Series.Everett stopped Martin with 1:57 remaining in the first round. His impressive performance earned him one of four contracts awarded by Dana White that night. Everett entered the fight undefeated at 5-0 and had plenty of support inside the newly renovated META Apex.

Sal Everett is an undefeated welterweight from Las Vegas who trains at Freestyle MMA Las Vegas. His MMA journey has taken him from working behind the scenes at the UFC to earning a place on its official roster.Three years ago, Everett was working security at the UFC Apex. At that stage, becoming a UFC fighter was only a dream. He continued competing on the local MMA scene and picked up fast finishes while developing his skills.

Everett later moved into a runner role for the UFC. That job eventually led to the biggest opportunity of his career.While Everett was working, he was stocking Dana White’s refrigerator. White noticed him and asked whether Hunter Campbell and Sean Shelby had contacted him.

Everett said no and asked why, “Because I want to see you on the Contender Series”The moment left Everett stunned.“I was giddy like a little school girl. Me and my boss Nicole were dancing right behind his back as soon as he said that. Um, yeah, just pinching myself, you know, just living in this dream. It’s so surreal,” Everett added.Everett then delivered when his opportunity arrived. He faced Ozzy Martin and produced a spectacular first-round knockout.

A right hook finished a combination and sent Martin to the canvas.The victory improved Everett’s record to 5-0. More importantly, it earned him a UFC contract.Dana White was delighted to see Everett get his opportunity.“He’s one of the greatest kids ever and it couldn’t happen to a better person. So I’m happy for him,” UFC President Dana White said to start the post-fight press conference.

The atmosphere inside the META Apex also stood out. Everett received huge support from people inside the UFC.

Fighters including Jamahal Hill and Sean Sharaf were seen celebrating his victory cageside.White later revealed that he left his seat after the knockout and went backstage so cameras would not capture him celebrating.Everett’s journey has also included difficult moments away from fighting. Despite the challenges he has faced, he remains focused on his opportunity.“Life is hard. Fighting is easy. And this is just all a blessing. I’m blessed to be here in this position.”With his UFC contract secured, Everett now awaits his first fight under the promotion. His remarkable journey from UFC security guard and runner to UFC fighter has given him a unique start to his professional career.