Veteran Mandel Nallo Aims for UFC Success at 36

Mandel Nallo has made his mark in mixed martial arts (MMA) and is now set to establish himself in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) at the age of 36. The veteran Canadian lightweight secured his place in the UFC on September 2, 2023, following a stunning first-round knockout of Brazilian fighter Samuel Silva during “Dana White’s Contender Series.” This victory represents a significant milestone in Nallo’s career, which has spanned over a decade since he made his professional debut in November 2012.

Reflecting on his journey, Nallo expressed a sense of validation. “It kind of had to happen that way. But I’m glad I proved a lot of people right when they were telling me I deserved to be in the UFC a long time ago,” he stated. With this achievement, Nallo now has clarity regarding his future in the sport, a contrast to the uncertainty he faced earlier in his career.

The knockout came from a precise right hand to Silva’s chin, followed by a barrage of punches on the ground, prompting the referee to stop the fight just three minutes and 29 seconds into the round. Following this impressive performance, UFC President Dana White quickly offered Nallo a contract, stating, “I do not love your age but I love your style. Get over here, I’m going to give you a shot.”

Those familiar with Nallo’s career anticipate he will seize this opportunity. Former UFC champion Georges St-Pierre highlighted his potential, advising fans to “keep your eye on him.” Fellow fighter and friend Aiemann Zahabi echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’m super-happy for him. It’s a long time coming for him to make it to the UFC and he’s sacrificed a lot. Now it tastes that much sweeter for him.”

Nallo’s victory over Silva marked his fifth consecutive first-round finish and the twelfth of his professional career. Born in Vancouver, Nallo moved to Ghana at the age of ten before returning to Canada. He has lived in various cities, including Ottawa, where he attended Carleton University for a year and a half before dedicating himself fully to MMA.

Currently, Nallo divides his time between Toronto, where he lives with his wife and two children, and Montreal, home to the renowned Tristar Gym. While training at the Santos Brothers BJJ in Toronto, he is also in the process of opening Tristar Toronto, where he plans to teach when not preparing for fights.

Nallo’s interest in martial arts began early, inspired by childhood movies featuring Jackie Chan. His mother enrolled him in a Japanese jiu-jitsu class at the age of 15, which ignited his passion for the sport. He recalls his professional debut fondly, having won in just 39 seconds against Joseph Latour, aided by instructions from coach Firas Zahabi.

Nallo’s journey has not been without its challenges. He credits St-Pierre for helping him recover from a setback in March 2023, when he lost to American Adam Piccolotti at Bellator 293. St-Pierre reached out to offer guidance, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience in high-pressure situations.

Since leaving Bellator, where he compiled a record of 4-3-0 with one no-contest, Nallo has bounced back with five consecutive wins. His unorthodox nickname, “Rat Garbage,” stems from a light-hearted brainstorming session during his time living in the Tristar dorms. This quirky moniker has stuck, bringing a sense of humor to his persona in the sport.

As Nallo prepares for his UFC debut, he remains focused on his training and the opportunities ahead. With a promising career trajectory and the support of his peers, he is poised to make a significant impact in the UFC.