This is the live blog for Gilbert Burns vs. Mike Malott, Saturday’s welterweight main event at UFC Winnipeg at the Canadian Life Center in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Burns (22-9) has fallen into the worst slump of his career, with four consecutive losses dating back to 2023 and his back already in trouble. The one-time UFC title challenger’s slide included some of the best at 170 pounds, including the undefeated Michael Morales, as well as future champions Jake De La Maddalena and Belal Muhammad. He’s the perfect test to see if Marlott is ready to break into the elite ranks.
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Since losing to Neil Magny at UFC 297, Marott (13-2-1) has turned things around with consecutive wins over Kevin Holland, Charles Radtke and Trevin Giles. Marlott has emerged as one of Canada’s top title contenders, joining the likes of legend Georges St-Pierre and long-time contender Rory MacDonald as the only boxers to make headlines in their home country. Marott is under pressure to impress against Burns or risk getting lost in the shuffle of welterweight contenders.
Check out Gilbert Burns’ live blog with Mike Malott below.
Preface
Sadly for those of you keeping score at home, it’s already been a losing night for Team Canada, with three wins (Charles Jordan, Jasmine Jasudavicius and Melissa Croden) and five losses (Mander el Nallo, Julian LeBlanc, Tanner Boeser, Jamie Ringhorse and Jamie Siraj), but if Mike Mallott does what he’s supposed to do and takes Gilbert away, he can send Manitoba fans home. Burns’ position in the rankings.
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always tell me the odds
Malott is -255 (per FanDuel), despite being the next level up in the competition. Burn the 2-for-1 underdog at +210.
first round
Herb Dean was the third man in the cage for the main event.
Marlott patiently helped Burns down, and he took a low blow. All is well. Marlott advanced with a combination and Burns defended well. Burns sneaks in a right hand shot to the body. Marlott scored with a well-timed uppercut. Nice counter combo from the Canadians. Marlott stopped Burns with his jab. Burns has a knockdown stuffer. He’s throwing big punches but can’t catch Marlott yet.
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Marlott extended a right hand and Burns responded with a right hand. They both throw rights and Marlott gets the upper hand. It wasn’t an overwhelming first round for Marlott, but he should have a chance.
Marlott, the mixed martial arts score was 10-9 in this round.
second round
Burns tried to close in with kicks, but Marlott’s size advantage allowed him to drive right through them. Marlott stayed safe, sticking to his jab and avoiding Burns’ power. Burned by Superman’s punch. Look left from Burns. He then landed a more powerful left hook. Marlott lands a jab and Burns looks flustered. This could hurt Burns’ nose.
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Marott throws more punches, but Burns closes the distance and lands some big punches. Neither side showed tight defense in this round. Marlott avoids a knockdown. He is winning the sales battle with his feet. Marlott lands another nice jab. So far, great performance.
Marlott, the mixed martial arts score was 10-9 in this round. Overall, Marlott 20-18.
third round
Burns immediately rushed into action. He may be willing to go out with a shield, bless him. A quick trip from Burns. Marlott wasn’t fazed by the footage. Speaking of shots, Burns changes levels and lands another takedown. Marlott’s jab continued to cause Burns trouble. Burns is missing. Malott doesn’t miss out on a flashy combination to beat Burns. He’s in trouble.
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Marlott and Burns land big right hands. Malott completed the shot with a swing and the game was suspended.
Official results: Mike Malott wins. Gilbert Burns TKO (knockout) (R3, 2:08)
After the battle
Burns left his glove in the cage and it could be his.
Marott began his post-fight interview by praising Burns, calling him “one of the greatest legends in the sport both inside and outside the cage.”
When asked who he’d like to fight next, Marlott acted very Canadian and said he’s not the type to call anyone out. sigh.
Gilbert Burns retires
An emotional Burns got some microphone time and the crowd let out a huge cheer.
“I work really hard. I work really hard for these games. I know Mike is going to play at home and he’s going to bring everything…” The crowd started chanting “Gilbert!” before Burns finished the scene.
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“Thank you Winnipeg, Canada, shout out to Sean Shelby. Big thanks to Dana White, Hunter Campbell, Joe Rogan, Paul Felder, all of you, all the safety team, all the guys in blue shirts. I worked hard but I think that’s all Already. I think I’ve had a great career. I fought hard and I wanted to win so bad, but, yeah, I think that’s it. I’ve fought the best guys in the world, No. 1 guys, a lot of them, former champions, and I’ve never said no to a fight.
“But I’m satisfied. I always try to challenge myself and I fight everyone.”
Burns’ family had a wonderful moment with him. Thank you, Durinho.
