Malcolm Malik Wellmaker, widely known as “The Machine,” is an undefeated American bantamweight rising star in the UFC. Born June 4, 1994 (Gemini) in Augusta, Georgia, this 31-year-old switch-stance striker now boasts a perfect 10‑0 professional record.
Recently, he rocked the MMA world with a dramatic first-round knockout over Kris Moutinho at UFC Atlanta on June 14, 2025. That one-punch walk-off KO made him the largest betting favorite in UFC history—and cemented his reputation as one to watch.
He first burst onto the scene with a spectacular finish on Dana White’s Contender Series on August 27, 2024, securing a UFC contract at 8‑0 with a stunning first-round right hook KO over Adam Bramhald. Since then, his swift rise and viral finish clips have cultivated a growing fanbase and media buzz.
Early Life, Family Background & Education of Malcolm Wellmaker
Malcolm Malik Wellmaker was born into a working-class family in Augusta, Georgia, on June 4, 1994. He is American by nationality, of Black and Filipino descent, and under the Gemini zodiac sign. Standing 5'10" and weighing around 136 lbs, he trained at Faglier’s Mixed Martial Arts under coach Jason “Pops” Faglier.
While public records do not reveal the names or occupations of his parents or siblings, Wellmaker frequently references the support of his family and coach in interviews. He maintains privacy around personal family details, but proudly credits them for his disciplined rise.
Growing up in Augusta, he focused on athletics and health. Though formal schooling records are not public, it is known that Wellmaker worked as a pipefitter/welder before committing full-time to MMA.
Around age 22, he began training under “Pops,” who immediately recognized his potential. That marked the start of a disciplined transition from amateur bouts across Virginia, Kentucky, and even brewery circuits to becoming Georgia’s top-ranked amateur bantamweight.
Wellmaker prefers to keep his personal life low-key. See how other fighters like Joshua Van balance public attention with private discipline.
Malcolm Wellmaker’s Career Journey: From Beginnings to Fame
Wellmaker debuted in pro MMA in 2018, fighting in regional promotions such as Conflict MMA and NFC. Early highlights include a TKO win at Conflict MMA 47 in July 2018, followed by a unanimous decision in December 2018.
He gained serious traction through a series of knockouts, culminating in a spectacular performance on Dana White’s Contender Series on August 27, 2024. His first-round right hook KO earned him a UFC contract and viral notoriety.
His UFC debut came on April 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, when he knocked out Cameron Saaiman in just 1 minute 59 seconds, earning Performance of the Night honors. His recent UFC Atlanta victory was another first-round finish—this time over Kris Moutinho—marking the largest betting favorite event in UFC history. Wellmaker later revealed that close friends and family were present for the emotional win.
In a post-fight interview, he said:
“My life is a dream… I believe I have the power to put any bantamweight out.”
As of mid-2025, he’s seen as one of the UFC's most exciting undefeated prospects.
While Wellmaker dominates the bantamweight scene, Brazilian light heavyweight Rodolfo Bellato is another rising name making headlines in the UFC.
Personal Life & Relationships of Malcolm
Malcolm Wellmaker is reserved when it comes to personal life. He has not publicly confirmed any current or past romantic relationships, and his social media is focused primarily on fight promotions, training, and expressing gratitude toward his family and coach.
While he has occasionally joked about “my kids” online, there’s no verified indication of children or a partner. He maintains a close-knit relationship with his training camp and inner circle in Augusta.
Net Worth, Income Sources & Lifestyle in 2025
Tapology lists his disclosed earnings from UFC as around $50,000 per fight. Combined with his $50,000 Contender Series bonus—used to leave his welding job—his pivot into full-time MMA is clear.
Notable income streams include UFC fight purses, bonuses (Performance of the Night), emerging sponsorship or apparel deals, and growing endorsements tied to new popularity. Since his UFC ascension, he’s amassed 70,000+ social followers, which boosts commercial opportunities.
Although there’s no public real estate or automotive portfolio info, it's likely he’s investing newly earned income into a stable lifestyle. His commitment to fans and community also suggests future philanthropic activity, though none is documented yet.
TL;DR Summary
Malcolm “The Machine” Wellmaker, born June 4, 1994, in Augusta, Georgia, is an undefeated bantamweight (10‑0, 6 KOs) in the UFC. Trained by Jason Faglier, he left his welding career after earning a $50K UFC bonus from Dana White’s Contender Series. His powerful knockouts and calm discipline have made him a viral sensation and one of the most promising fighters in the bantamweight division.
Read about other young prospects like Luka Mijatovic who’ve gained national buzz for discipline and drive at a young age.
Frequently Asked Questions About Malcolm Wellmaker
Who is Malcolm Wellmaker?
He is a 31-year-old American bantamweight UFC fighter known for his undefeated record and explosive knockouts.
What are Malcolm Wellmaker’s height and reach?
He stands 5'10", weighs about 136 lbs, and has a 71-inch reach
When did he make his UFC debut and result?
He debuted on April 26, 2025, in Kansas City, KOing Cameron Saaiman at 1:59 of round one.
What is his overall MMA record and finish rate?
He’s a 10‑0 professional with six KO/TKO, two submissions, and two decisions.
Why is he called “The Machine”?
His nickname refers to his relentless, mechanical precision, often switching stances and overwhelming opponents.
What is his ethnicity?
Malcolm Wellmaker is of Black and Filipino descent.
How did he become a UFC fighter?
He earned a UFC contract after knocking out Adam Bramhald in round one on Dana White’s Contender Series in August 2024.
Is Malcolm Wellmaker on Wikipedia?
As of mid-2025, he does not yet have a Wikipedia page, but fan demand and media coverage suggest one may be created soon.