Highlights
- Malcolm Wellmaker, 30, won a UFC contract after a first-round knockout in Dana White’s Contender Series.
- The undefeated fighter (8-0) hails from Augusta, Georgia, and has a diverse background in trade work and dance.
- Wellmaker’s mixed heritage and family background have played a significant role in shaping his journey to the UFC.
Augusta native Malcolm Wellmaker has secured a UFC contract after an impressive knockout victory in Dana White’s Contender Series, marking a significant milestone in his mixed martial arts career.
Rising Star In The Octagon
Malcolm “The Machine” Wellmaker, born on April 6, 1994, has quickly become a name to watch in the bantamweight division.
The Augusta native secured his spot in the UFC with a stunning right-hand knockout just over two minutes into his bout against Adam Bramhald on Tuesday night in Las Vegas.
UFC President Dana White was impressed enough to offer Wellmaker a contract, propelling the 30-year-old fighter into mixed martial arts’ highest echelon.
From Augusta To The UFC
Wellmaker’s journey to the UFC is as diverse as his skill set.
A graduate of John S. Davidson Fine Arts School, he gained local fame as a member of the Crash Crash Jerk Crew dance group.
Outside the octagon, Wellmaker is a skilled welder and a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 150 in Augusta.
His MMA training takes place at Fagliers MMA gym in Augusta, where he honed the skills that led to his undefeated record.
Wellmaker’s path to the UFC included victories in Conflict MMA events in Augusta and Savannah before his appearance on Dana White’s Contender Series.
Family And Heritage
Malcolm Wellmaker’s success is deeply rooted in his family background and diverse heritage.
His mother, Lisa Holmes, is of Asian-American descent, while his late father, Franklin Wellmaker, was African-American.
Wellmaker lost his biological father to cancer when he was just three years old, a loss that has shaped his life and career.
In a heartfelt interview following a victory in February 2022, Wellmaker spoke about the importance of father figures in his life, particularly his coach, whom he affectionately calls “Pops.”
This relationship has been crucial in his development as both a fighter and a person.
Wellmaker’s family extends beyond his parents. He has two brothers, Junrey Balawing, a photographer, and Panda Vinson, who serves in the Navy.
His sister, Liyahl Washington, rounds out the family that has supported his journey to the UFC.
Looking Ahead
With his UFC contract secured, Malcolm Wellmaker is poised to make his mark in professional MMA.
His unique blend of skills, from welding to dancing to fighting, combined with his undefeated record, makes him an exciting prospect in the bantamweight division.
As Wellmaker prepares for his UFC debut, fans can follow his journey on social media, where he maintains an active presence, including a VLOG documenting his training and competitions.
The MMA world will be watching closely as this Augusta native takes his next steps in what promises to be an exciting career in the UFC.
Just So You Know
- Malcolm Wellmaker is a father, often sharing moments with his son and girlfriend after fights.
- Before turning pro, he had a 9-1 amateur record with 7 finishes.
- His nickname “The Machine” reflects his work ethic in and out of the octagon.
