Mike Malott sees Joaquin Buckley as next step in UFC rise
The Canadian believes a win over the No. 10 welterweight would be a logical next step after victories over two ranked opponents.
Mike Malott is confident that his upcoming fight against Joaquin Buckley represents the next step in his UFC career. The Canadian welterweight is set to headline UFC Edmonton on Saturday against the American contender and sees the matchup as an opportunity to prove he belongs among the division's top fighters.
Mike Malott Welcomes Top-10 Challenge
Malott enters the matchup with plenty of momentum after winning four consecutive fights. In his last two appearances, the Canadian defeated Kevin Holland and Gilbert Burns, two fighters ranked among the top 15 in the division.
Now, Malott is about to face the No. 10 welterweight, and he sees that challenge as the logical progression in his career. Speaking to MMA Junkie, the Canadian fighter expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to face a top-10 opponent, describing the matchup as the next step he needs to take.
"I love the matchup," Malott said. "It's a top-10 opponent. It's what we need. It's clearly the next step. I've beaten two top-15 guys, two ranked guys in my last two fights. I think that's a very logical next step. I like it, man."
With his recent success inside the Octagon, Malott made a point of praising his team and coaches. According to the Canadian, his winning streak has reinforced his confidence in the work he has been putting in at the gym.
"It just further cements everything that we're doing right," Malott said. "It just shows that we're doing all the right things. We've made even more improvements and adjustments since then. It shows to just keep believing in the process. Keep doing what you're doing, trust your coaches, trust yourself, good things happen."
Mike Malott Recognizes Joaquin Buckley's Threat
Despite his confidence, Malott is not underestimating the challenge ahead. Although Buckley is coming off back-to-back unanimous decision losses to Kamaru Usman and Sean Brady, Malott acknowledged his opponent's skills and pointed out that the American remains one of the most dangerous welterweights in the UFC.
"He's fought some of the best guys in the world," Malott said. "He's one of the best welterweights out there. [...] He's not run down. He's still a super dangerous guy. I think it just proves the level I'm at. Obviously, we'll figure out what's after this. I feel like I'm climbing the ladder the way that I should."
At 34 years old, Malott holds a 14-2-1 professional record. The Canadian is expected to headline UFC Edmonton against Buckley on Saturday.
