The UFC Apex in Las Vegas was the venue for the much-anticipated UFC Vegas 106: Burns vs. Morales event. The fight card featured a thrilling headliner showcasing No. 8 ranked welterweight Gilbert Burns, who has a professional record of 22 wins and 8 losses, against the rising star, No. 12 ranked Michael Morales, boasting an impressive unbeaten record of 17 wins and 0 losses. This matchup was crucial for both fighters, as Burns sought to end a three-fight losing streak while Morales aimed to secure a spot in the Top 10 with a victory.
Fans tuned in for the action, which began with preliminary bouts, followed by the main card. Viewers could catch the main card starting at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+, while the preliminary fights started earlier at 4 p.m. ET, also on ESPN+
The results from the main card at UFC Vegas 106 were significant. Michael Morales stunned the crowd by defeating Gilbert Burns via TKO due to punches at 3:39 of Round 1. This victory not only showcased Morales's skill but also marked a critical moment in his career, pushing him closer to the upper echelons of the welterweight division.
Another anticipated fight, featuring Rodolfo Bellato against Paul Craig, was unfortunately canceled, leaving fans disappointed. However, several other bouts delivered noteworthy outcomes. Mairon Santos secured a unanimous decision victory over Sodiq Yusuff with a score of 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28, showcasing his dominant performance throughout the fight. Nursulton Ruziboev also claimed victory over Dustin Stoltzfus by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the fight 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28.
In another exciting matchup, Melquizael Costa defeated Julian Erosa, winning via unanimous decision with scores of 29–28 from all judges, illustrating Costa’s effective strategy and control throughout the fight.
The preliminary card was filled with intense action. Gabe Green achieved victory over Matheus Camilo by submission via rear-naked choke at 3:43 in Round 2. Jared Gordon made a statement by knocking out Thiago Moises with punches at just 3:37 of Round 1, showcasing his striking power early in the card. Yadier del Valle also impressed fans by submitting Connor Matthews with a rear-naked choke at 2:54 of Round 1.
Further highlights included Luana Santos submitting Tainara Lisboa with an Americana at 4:59 of Round 2, and Denise Gomes knocking out Elise Reed with punches just 30 seconds into Round 2. HyunSung Park secured a submission victory over Carlos Hernandez via rear-naked choke at 2:26 of Round 1, ensuring a swift finish. Finally, Tecia Pennington took home a unanimous decision victory over Luana Pinheiro with a score of 29-28 from all three judges.
UFC Vegas 106 provided a night of thrilling fights and significant outcomes, particularly Morales's victory over Burns, which sets up an exciting future for the welterweight division. Fans are eager to see what’s next for Morales and how Burns will respond to this latest setback in his career.
