5 lesser-known UFC fighters set to grab the spotlight this year

#4. Song Yadong

Song Yadong faces Casey Kenney at UFC 265

Team Alpha Male standout Song Yadong is well on his way to earning a title shot this year. Recently knocking out former title challenger Marlon Moraes, Yadong has a solid case for a big-name fight next.

Banatmweight is the most stacked it's ever been. Abounded by marquee names and talented athletes, making a mark in the 135lb division is quite the task. His spectacular finish of Moraes has the entire division on notice.

Not only will 'Kung Fu Monkey' be fighting up the ranks next, there's a good chance that 2022 will have him headlining a Fight Night or opening up a PPV event. This year is looking promising for this Chinese fighter.

#3. Grant Dawson

UFC Fight Night: Dawson v Narimani

Glory MMA's Grant Dawson might be coming off of a draw, but he has all the potential to make 2022 his year. From fighting under the tutelage of James Krause, who may be one of the most MMA-studious coaches in the game, to recently making the move to American Top Team in Florida, the 28-year-old has made improvements in spades with each performance and is expected to continue doing so.

5-0-1 with 3 finishes in the promotion, Dawson has a very imposing style. His striking is catching up to his grappling ability, which is troubling for other lightweights. 'KGD' has proven time and time again to be a dominant fighter, but the will to win was on full display when he took on Leonardo Santos. As close as this fight was, it seemed as if it was down to who wanted it more in the third round. Dawson certainly showed that he wanted it as he scored the last-second knockout and handed Santos his first loss in the UFC.

The sky truly is the limit for the 28-year-old -- fighting up the ranks and an active 2022 will serve this potential lightweight contender very well.