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UFC returns to Las Vegas with a talent-packed event headlined by a generational clash between Gilbert Burns and Michael Morales. Today, Saturday, May 17, the UFC Apex will host a fight that pits the veteran Brazilian, with years of experience in the elite, against the undefeated Ecuadorian who is looking to establish himself as one of the new contenders for the welterweight title.
Burns is currently ranked number eight in the division and is going through a tough period with three consecutive defeats. On the other hand, Morales arrives undefeated with 17 wins and a meteoric rise since his debut in Dana White's Contender Series. His most recent knockout victory over Neil Magny has positioned him as a name to watch in the top 15 at 170 pounds.
Burns seeks redemption, Morales wants to establish himself
For Burns, this fight represents more than just a possible victory: it's an opportunity to prove that he still has what it takes to compete with the best in the world. A fourth defeat in a row could definitely take him out of the title picture.
In contrast, for Morales, the goal is clear: to consolidate his status as one of the best young welterweight talents. With five consecutive victories since ing the UFC, this matchup against a former title challenger could mark the beginning of his path to marquee fights and eventually a shot at the belt.
Full lineup
Main card
- Gilbert Burns vs. Michael Morales (welterweight)
- Rodolfo Bellato vs. Paul Craig (light heavyweight)
- Sodiq Yusuff vs. Mairon Santos (featherweight)
- Dustin Stoltzfus vs. Nursulton Ruziboev (middleweight)
- Julian Erosa vs. Fernando Padilla (featherweight)
- Matheus Camilo vs. Gabe Green (lightweight)
Preliminary card
- Jared Gordon vs. Thiago Moises (lightweight)
- Tainara Lisboa vs. Luana Santos (women's bantamweight)
- Connor Matthews vs. Yadier Del Valle (featherweight)
- Denise Gomes vs. Elise Reed (women's strawweight)
- Carlos Hernandez vs. HyunSung Park (flyweight)
- Tecia Pennington vs. Luana Pinheiro (women's strawweight)
This combination of fights includes established names and promising debuts. Notable figures include Paul Craig, who is looking to get back to winning ways, and prospects such as Camilo and Del Valle, who are trying to make their mark from the start.