Is Mike Malott the Next Canadian Superstar?
As the UFC continues to expand its global reach, the search for Canada’s next UFC superstar is in full swing, and Mike Malott is a name that’s starting to generate some buzz. The Burlington, Ontario native burst onto the scene with a series of impressive finishes, including a first-round TKO win against Mickey Gall and submissions over Yohan Lainesse and Adam Fugitt. These performances showcased his well-rounded skill set and ability to finish fights quickly, earning him a reputation as a dangerous contender. However, in his past two fights, he’s beginning to show signs that he might now be the next superstar. In a fight against UFC veteran, Neil Magny, he was winning the first two rounds before gassing out and getting finished in the third round, where many fans viewed it as Malott quitting. Then, in his last performance, he got back in the win column against Trevin Giles, however, many viewed the fight as boring.
Despite these hurdles, Malott’s potential is undeniable. A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a great Muay Thai striker, he has trained at some of the world’s best gyms, including Team Alpha Male, where he has developed a sharp, aggressive fighting style. His diverse skill set and high finishing rate set him apart in a stacked Welterweight Division. Yet, the ability to consistently deliver under pressure and adjust mid-fight remains a critical question for the 31-year-old prospect. For Malott, it’s about proving that he can bounce back from adversity, refine his approach, and close the gaps that were exposed against the likes of Magny.
As Malott prepares for his next bout at UFC 315 on home soil in Canada, the stakes are high. He takes on another exciting fighter in his own right, Charles Radtke - someone who doesn’t always fight the smartest but likes to put on a show. A statement win would do more than just boost his ranking, it would reaffirm his status as one of Canada’s brightest MMA hopes. However, another flat performance could leave him as someone remembered by what could have been. The question remains: can Mike Malott rise to the occasion and become the next Canadian superstar?
