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Mike Malott Defeats Gilbert Burns by Third-Round Knockout; Burns Announces Retirement

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UFC Fight Night: Winnipeg Results & Burns Announces Retirement

A UFC Fight Night event in Winnipeg saw Mike Malott defeat Gilbert Burns by technical knockout in the third round of the main event. Following the loss, Burns announced his retirement from mixed martial arts.

Event Overview

The UFC Fight Night event took place on April 18, 2026, at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Main Event: Malott vs. Burns

In the welterweight main event, Mike Malott defeated Gilbert Burns by technical knockout at 2:08 of the third round. According to one fight summary, Malott established his striking early, while Burns attempted takedowns. In the third round, a combination from Malott resulted in a knockdown, followed by another knockdown from a right hook before the fight was stopped.

Following the bout, Burns placed his gloves in the center of the octagon, a gesture commonly associated with retirement in mixed martial arts.

Fighter Statements

Mike Malott stated he was "on top of the world" and referred to Burns as "one of the greatest legends in the sport."

Gilbert Burns confirmed his retirement, stating, "I think that's it. I had a great career. I fought the best guys in the world... I'm content." He added that he had been confident of victory but had considered retirement if the fight did not go his way. Burns stated he was financially stable from his career and did not wish to continue fighting "just for a paycheck."

Fighter Records and Context

  • Mike Malott's UFC record improved to 7-1, marking his fourth consecutive win. He received a $100,000 post-fight bonus award.
  • Gilbert Burns' professional record concluded at 22-10. The loss was his fifth consecutive defeat. He had been a UFC welterweight for 12 years, was often ranked, and challenged for the title in 2021.

Other Event Results

  • In the co-main event, Charles Jourdain defeated Kyler Phillips by unanimous decision.
  • Marcio Barbosa defeated Dennis Buzukja by knockout 80 seconds into their featherweight fight. Barbosa, who is on a five-fight win streak, also received a $100,000 post-fight bonus.
  • Jai Herbert defeated Mandel Nallo by knockout.

Burns's Future Plans

Gilbert Burns stated he plans to work in MMA management and is working on opening his own martial arts school in south Florida.