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Morales Stops Burns In A Round – ‘He Is The Real Deal’

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated May 18, 2025 9:47 AM ET

Michael Morales knocked out Gilbert Burns at UFC Vegas 106 in the first round in a devastating finish.

Burns came out of the blocks fast, as he started swinging in the hope of catching Morales early on. The latter remained composed as the pair exchanged some leg kicks. Once Morales got into range, he took his chances to throw. He connected with a thunderous uppercut to drop Burns.

While Burns was rocked, he managed to diffuse the situation with a takedown to regain his breath. However, that moment was short-lived. Morales connected with a right hand to drop Burns again. Morales followed up with more shots to secure the biggest win of his career. The victory extends Morales’ undefeated UFC record to 6-0.

Michael Morales destroys Gilbert Burns in round 1! #UFCVegas106 pic.twitter.com/oOqxatf1oP
— TakeruCigarra (@TakeruCigarra) May 18, 2025

“This was tough work, hard work, always, I’ll tell you what every fight to me is tough and I always feel nervous. I was actually very, very nervous back there in the locker rooms before [the fight]. I’ll tell you what, they told me trust yourself, trust what you can do, trust your potential. We put in the work and we made it happen. “My mom told me this, my grandma told me this, my mom is right here and she said ‘put that heavy hand and the rest will be history.’ This is to my mom. She’s here.

“I knew the whole welterweight division was going to come out for me. They were going to come at me like sharks. Everybody trying to take my head off but I’ll tell you what, I’m always ready. Ready to go, whoever they want me to fight, as long as I’m healthy and ready to go, I’ll be ready for them,” Morales said

Reaction

Morales has a 79" reach at 170…

That's insane! When those punches land at full extension…. HE'S CRACKING!!#UFCVegas106
— Corey 'Overtime' Anderson (@CoreyA_MMA) May 18, 2025

Michael Morales is the real deal.

The only welterweight to finish Gilbert Burns in either the first or second round.
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) May 18, 2025