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Michael Morales Knocks Out Gilbert Burns in Round One at UFC Vegas 106: A Rising Star in the Welterweight Division
- Austin Jones
- May 17
- 3 min read
Michael Morales Knocks Out Gilbert Burns in Round One at UFC Vegas 106: A Rising Star in the Welterweight Division
May 17, 2025 – UFC Vegas 106 delivered a jaw-dropping moment when 25-year-old Michael Morales knocked out former welterweight title challenger Gilbert Burns in the first round, cementing his place as a major threat in the division. The fight, which headlined the event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, was a showcase of Morales' power, precision, and unwavering confidence.
The Build-Up to the Fight
Gilbert Burns, a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience in the welterweight division, entered the octagon at UFC Vegas 106 with hopes of working his way back to another title shot. Burns, known for his elite grappling and dangerous striking, was considered a formidable opponent for the undefeated Michael Morales. Morales, a rising star from Ecuador, had an unblemished record of 17-0 going into the fight, with 12 of those wins coming by knockout. However, despite his perfect record, many questioned whether Morales was ready for the challenge posed by a fighter of Burns' caliber.
Round One: A Statement Performance
From the opening bell, Michael Morales wasted no time proving that he belonged in the octagon with the elite. With his fast hands and calculated aggression, Morales immediately took control of the fight. Burns, who tried to initiate a grappling exchange early on, found himself overwhelmed by the precision and power of Morales’ striking. Burns attempted a takedown, but Morales showcased his excellent takedown defense, shrugging off the pressure with ease.
As the round progressed, Morales continued to press the action, landing heavy shots to Burns’ head and body. At 3:39 of the first round, Morales unleashed a brutal barrage of punches that left Burns reeling. The strikes were too much for Burns to handle, forcing the referee to step in and call a technical knockout (TKO) victory for Morales.
The Aftermath: Morales' Undefeated Streak Continues
With the win, Michael Morales extended his undefeated record to 18-0, further solidifying his place as one of the top rising stars in the welterweight division. The 25-year-old's dominant performance earned him a Performance of the Night bonus, rewarding him for his electrifying display of striking and composure under pressure.
The win over Burns is particularly significant, as it propels Morales into the upper echelons of the welterweight division. Burns, a former title challenger and a fighter with elite grappling skills, was widely considered one of the toughest tests for Morales. However, the young Ecuadorian passed with flying colors, leaving no doubt about his potential to compete with the best in the world.
What’s Next for Michael Morales?
After such an impressive victory, all eyes will now be on Michael Morales as he looks to make a serious push toward a title shot. With his combination of power, precision, and an undefeated record, he is quickly becoming a fan favorite and a fighter to watch in the welterweight division.
A matchup with a top-ranked contender seems imminent, and a victory in his next bout could very well catapult him into title contention. With the momentum from his stunning knockout win, Morales is sure to be a force in the division for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Michael Morales' first-round knockout of Gilbert Burns at UFC Vegas 106 was not only a statement win but also a clear signal that the welterweight division has a new contender on the rise. The young Ecuadorian's impressive performance solidified his place as one of the most exciting prospects in the UFC, and his undefeated streak continues to inspire confidence in his ability to take on the best in the world.
As for Gilbert Burns, the loss stings, but his career is far from over. He remains a dangerous and experienced fighter who will undoubtedly continue to be a force in the welterweight division.
Keep an eye on Michael Morales – his future in the UFC is looking brighter than ever.
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