Fighters have to start somewhere, and this Contender Series is bringing in the best from regional shows (like LFA), former champions at that to fight for a contract for the UFC. Sure, some get snapped up quickly for short notice fights, but this is where they can prove they belong.
And this is bad how? It's not suppose to compete with other sports for ratings, it's not a fucking PPV. It's for hardcore fans interested in seeing some good scraps early in the week between eager competitors leaving their all in the cage for a contract.
See above, it's not a PPV or fight night, it's 5 fights held in a small venue viewed live by their families, friends and coaches.
He's the president of the UFC. He decides who gets the contract, plus it's his show! Hence the name. High focus will be on him, as well as the fight.
"Belt contention" before they even enter the UFC? Yeah, let's hold off on that. We are getting a preview of their life and lifestyle, before they enter the biggest fight of their life to get into the UFC.
TUF fighters fought for free. These fighters aren't. They're getting win and show money, plus - it's not like they had a gun to their head to sign the contract. They're chasing a dream. Once signed, their salary goes up.
Like I said above, it's Dana's show - hence the name. He pays them out of his own pocket, not the UFC's.
This show is fantastic, and they're scouting new talent left and right from it.