Mike Malott scored a third-round knockout against Gilbert Burns at UFC Winnipeg, leading to Burns' retirement. The fight showcased Malott's dominance, culminating in a decisive uppercut.
Key points
Mike Malott won by knockout in the third round
Gilbert Burns announced his retirement after the fight
The fight took place at UFC Winnipeg on April 18, 2026
Mentioned in this story
Winnipeg
Mike MalottGilbert BurnsUFC Fight Night
WINNIPEG, MANITOBA - APRIL 18: (R-L) Mike Malott punches Gilbert Burns of Brazil in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Canada Life Centre on April 18, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Mike Malott passed the test at UFC Winnipeg, earning a big third round knockout win over Gilbert Burns in front of a rowdy Canadian crowd.
The 39 year old Burns was never really able to get anything going against Malott, who is five years younger. His overhand rights never managed to land, and his takedowns got shucked off with ease. In the second round, Malott landed a big uppercut that stunned the Brazilian, and then another and another. The fight ended off, you guessed it, an uppercut followed by a right and some ground and pound, earning Malott the R3 win at 2:08.
“I’ve got 18,000 new friends in here,” a happy Malott said following the win. “Thank you so much.”
Following the loss, an emotional Burns laid down his gloves in the cage, and the crowd chanted ‘Gilbert’ during his final speech. This was “Durinho’s” fifth loss in a row and it definitely felt like time for him to retire. Gilbert Burns has been going to war with fighters in the UFC since 2014. You can only be so durable.
Malott was too polite and Canadian to call anyone out, but is now set to take Burns’ No. 11 slot in the welterweight rankings. Will a top ten opponent be next?
Watch the highlights from the full fight below, thanks to UFC and Paramount+: