EXCLUSIVE: Michael Dufort Explains His Viral Hammerlock Submission and Calls for UFC Opportunity

Canadian MMA prospect Michael Dufort is making sure the UFC cannot ignore him.

‘The Canadian Badass’ is coming off a sensational submission victory over Antoine Chaput at Samourai MMA 21, where he secured a rare hammerlock alongside a reverse triangle in a sequence that has quickly gone viral online.

The victory extended Dufort’s winning streak to five fights, with all five wins coming by way of finish. Even more impressively, each of those bouts has been a title fight under Samourai MMA, an organization based in Quebec, Canada.

Speaking exclusively to Combat Sports Fan Club, the 32-year-old explained that the unusual submission was not a moment of luck, but something he had repeatedly worked on during training.

“It was something I work a lot in practice and in training. So, like, it was just like I was doing step by step of my submission.” (3:00 in interview)

Michael Dufort eventually secured Chaput’s arm and transitioned into the hammerlock, putting himself in a position where he believes he could have caused serious damage.

“I could honestly have broken his arm. But, I guess I had some pity for him.” (2:32 in interview)

Michael Dufort Has Been Calling for a UFC Opportunity for 221 Straight Days

The finish has already attracted significant attention, with Michael Dufort revealing that the UFC Fight Pass clip had nearly 800,000 views.

However, the Canadian is not content with viral recognition. He has made his UFC ambitions clear and has been consistently calling for an opportunity.

Michael has also been documenting his UFC pursuit on Instagram, posting content every day for 221 consecutive days as of September 15.

His ultimate goal is simple: get a UFC opportunity, either directly or through Dana White’s Contender Series.

“I’m focused on one thing and it’s getting a call for either Dana White’s Contender Series or UFC right away.” (3:52 in interview)

Michael Dufort added that he could be ready to make his UFC debut in six weeks, with the UFC scheduled to return to Edmonton next month.

“I would be ready in six weeks for my UFC debut if they call me. That’s the only thing I really want and I’m ready.” (4:02 in interview)

With five straight finishes, a viral submission and a relentless campaign for his UFC opportunity, ‘The Canadian Badass’ is making his case louder with every fight.

Also read: Tom Aspinall Steps Away From Everything: UFC Heavyweight Champion Vacates Title, Announces Social Media Break in Same Breath

About The Author

Nachiket Jadhav

I consider myself a geek of Mixed Martial Arts. Not just MMA, I love all kinds of combat sports. Beyond being a fan, I’ve had the pleasure of working in MMA media in various capacities.

Previously, I worked with Sportskeeda MMA, initially as a Shorts and Interview Producer and later as a Content Writer and Snapchat Producer.

Currently, I’m a Content Producer and Interview Host for Combat Sports Fan Page, while also writing for UFC Daily News. I’ve also trained in MMA for several years and competed in different combat sports.

I love the fighting, but what I love even more are the characters and stories behind the sport. Trust me, nobody has better stories than MMA fighters. Just look at Nick Diaz!

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