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	<title>MMA Stories - newsnz</title>
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	<description>Latest news from New Zealand in English: politics, business, world, technology, sport, and lifestyle.</description>
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		<title>Quillan Salkilld shines with knockout victory in UFC Perth</title>
		<link>https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/quillan-salkilld/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Oliver Bennett]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 03 May 2026 08:07:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Trending]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knockout]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lightweight division]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[quillan salkilld]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ufc]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/quillan-salkilld/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Quillan Salkilld knocked out Beneil Dariush in the first round at UFC Perth, marking a significant milestone in his MMA career.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/quillan-salkilld/">Quillan Salkilld shines with knockout victory in UFC Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Quillan Salkilld continues his rise in the UFC with a <strong>first-round knockout</strong> of veteran Beneil Dariush at UFC Perth on May 2, 2026. This victory not only highlights Salkilld&#8217;s skills but also solidifies his status as one of the top contenders in the lightweight division.</p>
<p>Salkilld’s impressive win came just 3 minutes and 29 seconds into the fight. Despite being knocked down by a jab just 23 seconds into the contest, he quickly recovered and delivered a decisive blow that ended the match.</p>
<p>With this victory, Salkilld improves his professional MMA record to <strong>12 wins and 1 loss</strong>. His recent performances have garnered attention, especially after submitting Jamie Mullarkey in his previous fight.</p>
<p>Beneil Dariush, now 36 years old, has faced challenges recently, having been stopped by strikes in multiple fights. He was previously outpointed by Renato Moicano at UFC 317, raising questions about his future in the sport.</p>
<p>Salkilld expressed confidence heading into the fight, saying, &#8220;I knew he was going to wrestle; I was excited to do some of the wrestling exchanges.&#8221; His ability to adapt under pressure showcases his growth as a fighter.</p>
<p>This knockout victory places Salkilld firmly on the radar of MMA fans and analysts alike. He is regarded as one of Oceania&#8217;s brightest prospects in MMA, and many are eager to see how he will navigate the competitive landscape ahead.</p>
<p>Looking forward, it remains unclear what Salkilld’s next steps will be. The lightweight division is stacked with talent, and opportunities for title shots may arise soon.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/quillan-salkilld/">Quillan Salkilld shines with knockout victory in UFC Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
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		<title>Brando Pericic Knocks Out Shamil Gaziev in Perth</title>
		<link>https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/brando-pericic/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Oliver Bennett]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 03 May 2026 08:06:45 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Trending]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Belgrade]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brando pericic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[heavyweight fight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knockout]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Perth]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UFC Fight Night]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/brando-pericic/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Brando Pericic scored a knockout victory over Shamil Gaziev at UFC Fight Night 275, marking his fifth consecutive finish in MMA.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/brando-pericic/">Brando Pericic Knocks Out Shamil Gaziev in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On May 2, 2026, <strong>Brando Pericic</strong> delivered an electrifying performance at the <strong>RAC Arena in Perth</strong>, securing his fifth consecutive finish with a knockout against Shamil Gaziev. This thrilling heavyweight fight showcased the power and skill of Pericic, who now boasts an impressive record of 7-1 in MMA and 3-0 in the UFC.</p>
<p>Before this decisive moment, expectations were high for both fighters, with Gaziev entering the match with a solid record of 14-1. However, the bout quickly turned into a back-and-forth slugfest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.</p>
<p>The turning point came at 3:44 of Round 2 when Pericic landed a powerful blow that sent Gaziev to the canvas. The crowd erupted as the referee stepped in to stop the fight, marking another highlight in Pericic&#8217;s rising career.</p>
<p><strong>Key statistics:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Pericic scored a knockout finish at 3:44 of Round 2.</li>
<li>This victory improved his MMA record to 7-1 and his UFC record to 3-0.</li>
<li>Pericic has now achieved five consecutive finishes in his fights.</li>
<li>Gaziev&#8217;s record fell to 14-2 after this match.</li>
</ul>
<p>After the fight, Pericic expressed enthusiasm about continuing his journey in the UFC. &#8220;I want on the UFC Fight Night 282 card on Aug. 1 in Belgrade, Serbia,&#8221; he said. His ambition is clear as he aims to build upon this latest victory.</p>
<p>This win not only boosts Pericic&#8217;s confidence but also solidifies his status as a formidable contender in the heavyweight division. Fans are eager to see what comes next for &#8216;The Balkan Bear&#8217; as he continues to make waves in the MMA world.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/brando-pericic/">Brando Pericic Knocks Out Shamil Gaziev in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
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		<title>Carlos Prates Dominates in Perth, Aiming for Welterweight Title</title>
		<link>https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/carlos-prates/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Daniel Wilson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 03 May 2026 08:03:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Trending]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carlos Prates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knockout]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[submission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UFC Fight Night]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[welterweight title]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/carlos-prates/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Carlos Prates showcased his skills at UFC Fight Night in Perth, defeating local favorite Jack Della Maddalena and calling for a title shot.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/carlos-prates/">Carlos Prates Dominates in Perth, Aiming for Welterweight Title</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Carlos Prates delivered a dominant performance at <strong>UFC Fight Night</strong> on May 3, 2026, in Perth, Australia, defeating hometown favorite Jack Della Maddalena. This victory positions him as a top contender for the welterweight title.</p>
<p>Prates improved his record to 24-7 with 19 wins by knockout (KO), while Della Maddalena fell to 18-4 with 12 KOs after this fight. The bout turned in the third round when Prates knocked Della Maddalena down three times before the referee stopped the match.</p>
<p>After the fight, Prates expressed his confidence, stating, &#8220;I can punch, I can knee, I can kick &#8230; so I’m better, and now I feel like I’m the number one contender.&#8221; He has set his sights on challenging the winner of the upcoming welterweight title bout between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Makhachev.</p>
<p>At 32 years old, Prates aims to make history as the first Brazilian champion in the welterweight division. He remarked, &#8220;Brazil has never had a champion in the welterweight division. I will be the first.&#8221; This ambition resonates deeply with fans back home.</p>
<p>In another exciting match during the event, Quillan Salkilld won against Beneil Dariush by first-round TKO, adding to an electrifying night of fights.</p>
<p>Looking ahead, Carlos Prates plans to attend UFC 330 on August 15 to challenge the champion directly. He stated, &#8220;Regardless of who it is, I will be there in the front row keeping an eye on my title shot and to challenge the champion.&#8221; His determination reflects not only personal ambition but also his commitment to representing Brazil on an international stage.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/03/carlos-prates/">Carlos Prates Dominates in Perth, Aiming for Welterweight Title</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
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		<title>Colby Thicknesse Triumphs in Perth</title>
		<link>https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/colby-thicknesse/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Daniel Wilson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 10:31:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Trending]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bantamweight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cody Garbrandt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[colby thicknesse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Freestyle Fighting Gym]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UFC Perth]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/colby-thicknesse/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Colby Thicknesse achieved a unanimous decision victory against Vince Morales at UFC Perth, solidifying his position in the bantamweight division.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/colby-thicknesse/">Colby Thicknesse Triumphs in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Colby Thicknesse secured a <strong>unanimous decision</strong> victory over Vince Morales at UFC Perth on May 1, 2026. This win marks a pivotal moment in Thicknesse&#8217;s UFC career, moving him closer to establishing himself in the bantamweight division.</p>
<p>Before this fight, Thicknesse held a record of 1-1 in the UFC. He was looking to build on his previous win against Josias Musasa in September 2025. Morales, on the other hand, faced Thicknesse while struggling with a three-fight losing streak.</p>
<p>The judges scored the bout 29-28 across the board, reflecting a competitive matchup. Thicknesse expressed mixed feelings about his performance afterward: &#8220;I’m happy I won. But I wasn’t happy with the performance.&#8221; This sentiment highlights the pressure fighters feel even after securing victories.</p>
<p>Thicknesse trains at the Freestyle Fighting Gym in Australia and boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 8-1, including four finishes. His journey through the ranks continues as he aims for greater challenges.</p>
<p>Morales has struggled recently, now holding a UFC record of 3-8 overall. His last victory came in August 2024, making this loss particularly tough. The fight showcased Thicknesse&#8217;s potential to rise through the bantamweight ranks.</p>
<p>Looking ahead, Thicknesse has his sights set on more seasoned opponents. He remarked, &#8220;If I go out there and stop him, and make it look good, there’s a real possibility that I can start calling out more veteran guys, like Cody Garbrandt.&#8221; This ambition reflects his desire to make a name for himself in an increasingly competitive division.</p>
<p>The MMA community eagerly watches to see how this victory will impact Thicknesse&#8217;s future matchups and whether he can capitalize on this momentum.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/colby-thicknesse/">Colby Thicknesse Triumphs in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Jacob Malkoun Triumphs in Perth</title>
		<link>https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/jacob-malkoun/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Emily Fraser]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 10:31:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[decision]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fight night]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[jacob malkoun]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Middleweight division]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MMA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[submission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ufc]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/jacob-malkoun/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Jacob Malkoun faced a tough challenge but emerged victorious against Gerald Meerschaert at UFC Perth, winning by unanimous decision. This marks his second consecutive win in the UFC.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/jacob-malkoun/">Jacob Malkoun Triumphs in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&#8220;Meerschaert took the first round after pulling Malkoun down into a guillotine choke,&#8221; said a ringside observer after the fight. Jacob Malkoun secured a <strong>unanimous decision victory</strong> over Gerald Meerschaert on May 2, 2026, at UFC Perth, despite a challenging start to the match.</p>
<p>In front of a lively crowd at the <strong>RAC Arena</strong> in Perth, Malkoun showed resilience. Although he struggled early on, he managed to adapt his strategy and turned the fight around. The judges scored it 29-28 across all three scorecards.</p>
<p>Malkoun, now with a professional record of <strong>9-3</strong>, has proven himself as a formidable competitor in the <strong>Middleweight division</strong>. He has won two consecutive fights in the UFC, showcasing his skills and determination.</p>
<p><strong>Key statistics:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Malkoun averages <strong>4.55 significant strikes</strong> per minute.</li>
<li>He also records <strong>5.81 takedowns</strong> per 15 minutes.</li>
<li>This fight marked Meerschaert&#8217;s <strong>59th professional MMA career walk</strong>.</li>
<li>Meerschaert weighed in four pounds over the Middleweight limit, resulting in a forfeiture of 30 percent of his purse.</li>
<li>This was Meerschaert&#8217;s fourth consecutive loss; his last victory was against Edmen Shahbazyan in August 2024.</li>
</ul>
<p>Malkoun&#8217;s ability to keep the fight standing for most of the rounds proved crucial. &#8220;Malkoun uses his superior grappling to keep things on the feet,&#8221; noted an analyst after the event. His previous six wins have all come by decision, highlighting his tactical approach to fights.</p>
<p>The atmosphere at UFC Perth was electric, with fans cheering for both fighters. As Malkoun continues to climb the ranks, many will be watching closely to see how he develops further in his career.</p>
<p>Сообщение <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz/2026/05/02/jacob-malkoun/">Jacob Malkoun Triumphs in Perth</a> появились сначала на <a href="https://news-nz.co.nz">newsnz</a>.</p>
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