The UFC Fight Night in Edmonton 2026 will go down in history as the night Mike Malott, nicknamed "Proper," etched his name in gold in the annals of the welterweight division. Facing Joaquin Buckley, the Canadian delivered a masterclass in power and technique in just 2 minutes and 32 seconds of the second round. A perfectly timed flying knee, precise as a Swiss watch, landed on his opponent's chin, producing a KO as sudden as it was spectacular.
The impact was so violent that images of Buckley's mouthguard flying several meters away quickly flooded social media, going viral in record time. This moment, already considered one of the most memorable of the year, marked a turning point in Malott's career, propelling the young fighter into the world top 5 of his division.
A technical analysis that speaks for itself
This KO is no fluke—it’s the result of meticulous preparation and flawless execution. Unlike Buckley, who relied on a classic middle kick, Malott capitalized on an opening to land a flying knee, a move often underestimated in MMA but devastatingly effective.
"This kind of technique requires impeccable timing and absolute confidence in your abilities," explains an MMA analyst. "Malott proved he doesn’t just hit hard—he also thinks like a strategist." This victory highlights a notable progression since his UFC debut, where he was seen as an underdog. Today, he has become an unstoppable force in the division.
A bright future for "Proper"
With this historic KO, Mike Malott is no longer just dreaming of titles—he’s actively chasing them. His rise in the UFC rankings is now meteoric, and both fans and experts are asking: how far can he go?
"This fight was a test, and he passed it with flying colors," confides a member of his team. "Now, we need to aim higher. The big names in the division should start looking over their shoulders." One thing is certain: after that night in Edmonton, no one can ignore the rising star of the welterweight division.