Jeff Malott, UFC Fighter’s Brother, Battles Josh Manson in Season Opener

The 2025-26 NHL season commenced on October 7, 2025, featuring various exciting storylines. Among them is the impressive debut of Jeff Malott, a forward for the Los Angeles Kings.
Jeff Malott Steps onto the NHL Stage
For the first time, Jeff Malott made the NHL opening-night roster. This achievement marks a significant milestone in his hockey career. Malott, 29, previously played in the minors with the Winnipeg Jets organization after signing as an undrafted free agent from Cornell.
In 2024, he signed with the Los Angeles Kings. His strong performance during the preseason earned him a spot on the team’s roster for the 2025-26 season.
Family Legacy in Sports
Jeff Malott is the younger brother of UFC fighter Mike Malott. Mike holds a professional record of 12 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. The athletic spirit clearly runs in the Malott family.
Season Opener Highlights
In the season opener, Jeff Malott faced off against Josh Manson of the Colorado Avalanche. Manson had just delivered a powerful hit on Warren Foegele of the Kings, prompting Malott to defend his teammate.
- Malott engaged in a fight with Manson.
- He landed several good punches during the exchange.
- Malott was penalized with two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct and five for fighting.
This active participation showcased Malott’s commitment to his team and highlighted his willingness to protect teammates on the ice.
Looking Ahead
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Jeff Malott. His journey from the minors to the NHL and his family connections to UFC will certainly add an intriguing dimension to the Kings’ season. Fans are eager to see how he continues to impact the game moving forward.