Photo: UFC

By Miguel Palaban

Kimbert Alintozon is heading to Macau after being added to the bantamweight field of Road To UFC Season 5 on short notice.

The Filipino mixed martial artist will take on Rabindra Dhant in the opening stage of the tournament, which takes place May 28 to 29 at the Galaxy Arena.

Filipino combat sports journalist Nissi Icasiano first reported the news.

Alintozon steps in for Matty Ian, prompting a sudden shift in plans.

“The Hunter” had been preparing for a flyweight bout against Dave Bangguigui at an upcoming Zeus Fight League event on the same date.

Instead, he opted to seize the opportunity to compete on a larger platform.

Carrying a 7-3 slate, Alintozon has built a reputation for ending fights early, with most of his victories coming inside the distance.

One of his standout moments came in October 2024 when he knocked out Team Lakay’s Estrada Donga-as in under half a minute, a result that elevated his profile.

He later challenged for the ZFL flyweight championship in July 2025 but was unable to continue after absorbing heavy punishment against Jake Bron.

The setback did not stall his momentum as he returned to action this past March at a higher weight class and secured a stoppage win over hometown favorite Trọng Vinh Mùi in Vietnam.

Dhant represents a significant hurdle. The Nepalese fighter owns a 9-1 record and has competed in established organizations such as BRAVE Combat Federation and ONE Championship’s ONE Friday Fights.

Alintozon is joined in the tournament by compatriot Eros Baluyot, who will compete at flyweight.

A UFC contract awaits each division winner, raising the stakes for all participants.