UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Malott Brings Mixed Martial Arts Back to Winnipeg
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is returning to Manitoba for UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Malott. Scheduled for April 18, 2026, the event will grab place at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada. This event marks the promotion’s third visit to the city and its first appearance in Winnipeg since December 2017.
Main Event: Gilbert Burns vs. Mike Malott
The headliner features a high-stakes welterweight clash between former title challenger Gilbert Burns and Mike Malott. This bout pits a seasoned veteran against a rising contender in a matchup that promises technical depth and striking power.
Fighter Comparison
| Stat | Gilbert Burns | Mike Malott |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 22-9-0 | 13-2-1 |
| Height | 5′ 10″ | 6′ 1″ |
| Weight | 170 lbs | 171 lbs |
| Age | 39 | 34 |
| Reach | 71″ | 73″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
Full Fight Card and Matchups
Beyond the main event, the card features a variety of weight classes and international matchups. According to ESPN, the event will be broadcast via Paramount+ with prelims starting at 5:00 PM and the main card beginning at 8:00 PM.
Featured Bouts
- Bantamweight: Kyler Phillips vs. Charles Jourdain
- Lightweight: Mandel Nallo vs. Jai Herbert
- Women’s Flyweight: Jasmine Jasudavicius vs. Karine Silva
- Lightweight: Thiago Moisés vs. Gauge Young
- Featherweight: Dennis Buzukja vs. Marcio Barbosa
- Middleweight: Julien LeBlanc vs. Robert Valentin
- Heavyweight: Tanner Boser vs. Gokhan Saricam
- Women’s Bantamweight: Melissa Croden vs. Daria Zhelezniakova
- Flyweight: Mitch Raposo vs. Allan Nascimento
- Women’s Flyweight: JJ Aldrich vs. Jamey-Lyn Horth
- Bantamweight: John Castaneda
Event Background and Logistics
Too known as UFC Fight Night 273, this event is part of the UFC’s continued expansion within Canada. While there were early reports that the event might be hosted in Ottawa, Ontario, the UFC ultimately shifted the location to Winnipeg (via Wikipedia).
The card has seen some adjustments during its formation. A flyweight bout between André Lima and Choi Dong-hun was originally slated for the event, but was scrapped after Choi withdrew due to injury. A potential featherweight match between Choi Doo-ho and Gavin Tucker did not materialize after Tucker announced his retirement from the sport.
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Date: April 18, 2026
- Venue: Canada Life Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Main Event: Gilbert Burns vs. Mike Malott (Welterweight)
- Where to Watch: Paramount+ / ESPN
- Significance: Third UFC event held in Winnipeg
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the event start?
Prelims are scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM, with the main card following at 8:00 PM on April 18, 2026.
Where is the event being held?
The fights will take place at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada.
Who is fighting in the main event?
Gilbert Burns will face Mike Malott in a welterweight contest.
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