UFC Edmonton Weigh-Ins Complete as Buckley and Malott Set for Welterweight Clash

Key points

• All 26 fighters on the 13-match card made weight for the event in Edmonton.
• Joaquin Buckley and Mike Malott both weighed in at 170.5 pounds for their five-round main event.
• The event takes place on October 17 at Rogers Place, with the main card airing at 8 p.m. ET on Paramount+.
• Co-main event features No. 4 ranked Erin Blanchfield against No. 7 ranked Jasmine Jasudavicius in a women's flyweight bout.
• Buckley is looking to return to the win column after decision losses to Kamaru Usman and Sean Brady.

Background

This event marks the UFC's return to Canada. Buckley, a 32-year-old from St. Louis, is attempting to regain momentum after a two-fight losing skid that followed a six-fight win streak in 2024. He has expressed frustration over being passed over for a title shot in 2025. Malott, a 34-year-old Canadian, is riding a four-fight winning streak, including a recent TKO victory over Gilbert Burns. The previous UFC event in Canada was in Paris in September 2026, where all 28 fighters also made weight.

How outlets are covering it

Sherdog and UFC.com confirm that all fighters made weight, with Buckley and Malott both hitting 170.5 pounds. CBS Sports highlights Buckley's frustration over being denied a title shot in 2025 and his desire to return to the win column. MMA Junkie provides a detailed analysis of the matchup, noting that while Buckley is the official favorite, the public has bet on Malott. MMA Junkie predicts Malott will win by stoppage in the second round, citing his ability to counter Buckley's aggressive style. Buckley, in contrast, is campaigning for a striking matchup and believes he can exploit Malott's tendencies to play on the outside of the cage.

Why it matters

The Buckley vs. Malott bout is a significant test for both fighters. For Buckley, a win could re-establish him as a top contender in the welterweight division. For Malott, a victory would solidify his position in the top 10 and potentially open the door for a title shot. The event also features a high-profile co-main event between Blanchfield and Jasudavicius, with a potential title shot on the line for the winner.

What to watch

The main card of UFC Fight Night 291 will air live on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET on October 17. The prelims will begin at 6 p.m. ET, with early prelims streaming on UFC Fight Pass at 5 p.m. ET. The event will be broadcast in Canada on Sportsnet and TVA Sports.