Emerging Stars: UFC 297 Fighters on the Rise

This weekend, the UFC is back at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, showcasing a pay-per-view card headlined by two championship bouts and featuring an array of fighters from Canada. Let's shine a spotlight on three Canadian fighters who will be aiming to make their mark on Saturday night at UFC 297.

Mike Malott: Captain Canada's Rise

Hailing from Waterdown, Ontario, Mike Malott might not have been the most talked-about contestant from Dana White's Contender Series Season 5, but within just three fights, he's become a rising name in the welterweight division. Known as "Captain Canada," Malott has an impressive 10-1-1 record, showcasing his finishing prowess with each of his victories earned inside the distance. His charisma and energy, both inside and outside the Octagon, have made him a fan favorite.

This Saturday, Malott faces off against Neil Magny, a seasoned welterweight with the most wins in the division's history. It's a high-pressure match for the Canadian, but his track record suggests he's up for the challenge, embracing the responsibility of representing the Maple Leaf on home turf.

Charles Jourdain: A Strategic Force

Charles Jourdain, a French-Canadian featherweight, has been a longstanding presence on the UFC roster. While he's been on the verge of breaking into the Top 15 for a couple of years, 2023 saw him add patience and tactical awareness to his game. Notable victories against Kron Gracie and Ricardo Ramos, along with previous strong performances, indicate his potential to climb the rankings.

In his 2024 debut, Jourdain faces Sean Woodson, a DWCS alum. The St. Louis native poses a challenge with considerable height and reach advantage, testing Jourdain's strategic approach. With a 4-1-1 record in the UFC, Woodson is also eyeing a breakthrough into the Top 15, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup.

Serhiy Sidey: The UFC Newcomer

Making his UFC debut just a stone's throw from his hometown of Burlington, Serhiy Sidey enters the featherweight division with momentum. His promotional journey began with a first-round stoppage win on Dana White's Contender Series, securing his place in the UFC. The Ukrainian-Canadian, a former champion in BTC and Battlefield Fight League, boasts slick hands, underrated grappling, and a six-fight winning streak.

Facing Ramon Taveras, whom he defeated on DWCS, Sidey encounters a familiar foe in his UFC debut. Taveras, known for his striking, will be a tough test, especially considering the added pressure of fighting on home soil. However, Sidey's experience in facing challenges away from home and his strong support system could bring out the best in this promising newcomer.

As the UFC returns to Toronto, these three Canadians aim to make their mark and contribute to the rich history of fighters who have thrived in the city. UFC 297 promises to be an exciting night for Canadian MMA fans, and these fighters are ready to deliver memorable performances. Oh Canada, here we go!

ufc

ufc 297

sean strickland

dricus du plessis

ufc tonight

ufc toronto

ufc fight night

jim miller

mike malott

ufc 297 tickets

magomed ankalaev

strickland

raquel pennington

ufc events

mayra bueno silva

movsar evloev

alex pereira

ufc results

johnny walker

arnold allen

chris curtis

charles jourdain

strickland vs duplessis

marc-andré barriault

ufc toronto tickets