MMA Match Preview: Gilbert Burns (22-8) vs. Michael Morales (17-0)
The welterweight division takes center stage at UFC Vegas 106, as former title challenger Gilbert Burns (22-8) faces undefeated rising star Michael Morales (17-0) in a high-stakes showdown. Burns is looking to halt a three-fight losing streak, while Morales aims to continue his ascent toward title contention.
Fighter Profiles & Recent Form
Gilbert Burns
- Record: 22-8
- Age: 38
- Height: 5’10”
- Reach: 71″
- Fight Style: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specialist with powerful striking
- Recent Form: Burns has struggled against younger contenders, losing to Belal Muhammad, Jack Della Maddalena, and Sean Brady in his last three fights. Despite setbacks, he remains a dangerous opponent with elite grappling and knockout power.
Michael Morales
- Record: 17-0
- Age: 25
- Height: 6’0″
- Reach: 79″
- Fight Style: Versatile striker with strong wrestling
- Recent Form: Morales has been dominant since earning his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series. He has won all five of his UFC bouts, including a first-round TKO victory over Neil Magny in his last fight.
Fight Breakdown & Key Factors
Striking Battle
- Morales has a significant reach advantage (79″ vs. 71″), allowing him to control distance.
- Burns has knockout power, but Morales’ precision and youth could give him the edge.
- Morales lands 4.15 significant strikes per minute, compared to Burns’ 3.90.
Grappling & Ground Game
- Burns is a third-degree BJJ black belt, making him one of the most dangerous submission artists in the division.
- Morales has strong wrestling, but he has yet to face a grappler of Burns’ caliber.
- Burns averages 2.1 takedowns per 15 minutes, while Morales defends takedowns at 85%.
Cardio & Durability
- Burns has five-round experience, but his endurance has declined in recent fights.
- Morales has never gone past three rounds, making his stamina a potential question mark.
- Burns has been finished twice in his last five fights, while Morales has 12 knockout wins.
Burns’ experience and grappling could make this competitive, but Morales’ youth, reach, and striking precision give him the edge. If Morales keeps the fight standing, he has a strong chance of securing a finish.
FIGHT ODDS
Gilbert Burns + 455
Michael Morales – 625
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025
