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Malcolm Wellmaker Eyes Marquee Matchup

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 11:16 PM ET

Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Malcolm Wellmaker is ready to take the next step in his UFC career. After a highlight reel knockout that further boosted his growing reputation. Wellmaker (10–0 MMA, 2–0 UFC) continued his ascent in June at UFC on ESPN 69, where he floored Kris Moutinho with a devastating one punch knockout. The emphatic finish was his third consecutive first round KO and earned him yet another Performance of the Night bonus.

Now, with momentum firmly on his side, the 26-year-old wants to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.

“I heard a couple of rumors about possibly making it to the 320 card in October,” Wellmaker told MMA Junkie Radio.

“That would be incredible. If I could get on that undercard, it would be amazing.”

It had to be done. How y’all know this stuff before me? Imma clean up the industry, I’m on yall. pic.twitter.com/OavHKokBU6

— Malcolm Wellmaker (@wallathemachine) August 22, 2025

Next Opponents in Sight

Malcolm Wellmaker already has a few names in mind as he pushes for a ranked opponent.

“I see Ricky Simon’s name get tossed around. I’ve seen Adrian Yanez’s name get tossed around,” he said. “I don’t think Payton Talbott will happen anytime soon because he’s also such a big prospect with such potential in front of him. But any of those guys I would love to fight any of them. I think I’d have a good time.”

Simon, a veteran who has faced some of the division’s best, and Yanez, a fan-favorite striker, would both serve as significant steps up in competition. Either fight could test whether Wellmaker is ready to accelerate into the UFC’s top 15.

A Prospect to Watch

With an undefeated record, knockout power, and growing fan buzz, Malcolm Wellmaker is emerging as one of the most exciting young names at 135 pounds. His ability to finish fights early has drawn comparisons to some of the division’s most explosive contenders, and his push for a PPV slot suggests the UFC may be ready to give him the spotlight.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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