contender

Benn entered as the WBC's number-one contender but the manner of the defeat will inevitably strengthen the argument that he was not ready for a world-title shot.

From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2026

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also been floated as a possible contender, although he has described reports that he is considering a run as "100 percent false."

From Barron's ● Sep. 10, 2026

The Cavaliers looking like strong contender for second place in West Valley League.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 8, 2026

In the right hands, it could’ve become a contender in theaters, especially when theaters are lacking good coming-of-age stories.

From Salon ● Sep. 2, 2026

"If ... if I had wanted to, would I have . . . you know, been a contender?"

From "The Contender" by Robert Lipsyte

Yes, I’m hoping to see some Oscar contenders while I’m here and have my fingers crossed for a few movies I’ll be seeing shortly.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 13, 2026

Among the top contenders are ‘The Pitt,’ ‘Widow’s Bay’ and ‘Hacks,’ while such worthy titles as ‘Death by Lightning’ and ‘American Classic’ have gone largely overlooked.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 10, 2026

In the past, films that generate big online buzz haven’t always translated to Oscar contenders.

From Salon ● Sep. 9, 2026

And Gasly and his team absolutely nailed qualifying, while all the usual leading contenders had scrappy sessions one way or another.

From BBC ● Sep. 5, 2026

The Santos, contenders for the division championship, were well coached, disciplined, and quick.

From "Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference" by Warren St. John