Mike Malott delivered a career-defining performance by defeating Gilbert Burns via technical knockout at UFC Winnipeg. This event marked a significant moment in Canadian mixed martial arts history.
UFC Winnipeg Highlights
The bout unfolded over 2.5 rounds, where both fighters exchanged powerful strikes. Malott, a welterweight from Burlington, Ontario, landed decisive punches, including a clubbing left hook and a straight right hand that floored Burns, energizing the home crowd.
Historic Main Event
This was Malott’s first main event appearance in the UFC. He made history by becoming the first Canadian to headline a UFC event in Canada since Rory MacDonald in 2016. With this victory, Malott improved his record to 7-1 in the UFC and is expected to enter the welterweight contender rankings after this fight.
- Malott has won four consecutive fights.
- Burns, who was ranked No. 11 at welterweight, faced his fifth straight loss.
Burns’ Emotional Exit
Following the match, an emotional Burns reflected on his defeat, suggesting that this might be the end of his career. The former title challenger’s record now stands at 7-7 since shifting from lightweight to welterweight in 2019. Burns has notable victories over top fighters such as:
- Jorge Masvidal
- Neil Magny
- Stephen Thompson
- Demian Maia
- Tyron Woodley
Co-Main Event Actions
The co-main event featured Charles Jourdain and Kyler Phillips competing in the bantamweight division. Jourdain, hailing from Beloeil, Quebec, extended his winning streak to three with a unanimous decision victory, improving to 3-0 since moving to 135 pounds.
Debutante Struggles
Mandel Nallo faced Jai Herbert in a lightweight match during his UFC debut. Despite showing promise early in the fight, Nallo was ultimately defeated by Herbert. This loss marked a disappointing debut for all three Canadian fighters scheduled for the event.
Additional Fights
Earlier in the night, Jasmine Jasudavicius from St. Catharines, Ontario, rebounded from a previous loss with a unanimous decision victory over Brazil’s Karine Silva, focusing on takedowns and control. Jasudavicius, currently ranked No. 7 in the women’s flyweight division, aims to face a higher-ranked opponent next.
The main card featured lightweights Thiago Moises and Gauge Young, with Young winning by decision. This event was notable as it was the UFC’s third visit to Winnipeg and the 37th event held in Canada overall.
