UFC Winnipeg: Mandel Nallo’s 17-Year Journey with Tristar
Tristar Gym began in 1991 and grew into a global MMA hub. Firas Zahabi bought the Montreal facility in 2008 from Alexandre Choko.
From local gym to elite camp
Choko had earlier acquired the gym from Conrad Pla, Michel Lavallée and Ron Di Cecco. Zahabi reshaped the program and reputation within two years.
The roster included established names such as Ivan Menjivar, David Louiseau, Yves Jabouin and Georges St-Pierre. Their presence raised standards for every newcomer.
Mandel Nallo’s early arrival
Mandel Nallo walked into Tristar less than two years after Zahabi’s takeover. A local promoter had invited him to train with pro fighters.
Nallo immediately noticed the work ethic and atmosphere. He sparred Georges St-Pierre during the Carlos Condit camp.
Opportunities and mentorship
St-Pierre viewed Nallo as a good training partner. He later flew Nallo to Renzo Gracie’s gym in New York for a week.
Nallo remembers the travel and routines, including cab rides and trips to a Russian spa. The bond with Tristar lasted about 15 years.
An unconventional fighter
Nallo developed an offbeat public persona. He used the nickname “Rat Garbage” for his Instagram art and T-shirt designs.
He did not fit the mainstream fighter image. Tristar itself embraced a culture of loyalty and respect for the craft.
A different path to fighting
Before combat sports, Nallo auditioned for a Montreal circus school. The program accepted roughly 12 students yearly.
He built a martial arts demo and trained gymnastics for the tryout. That detour ultimately pushed him toward MMA.
Professional rise and setbacks
Nallo served for years as a training complement to higher-profile fighters. He left Bellator in 2023, at nearly 34 years old.
He maintained confidence that a UFC opportunity would arrive. His family and team supported that belief.
Road to the UFC
In May 2025, Nallo was considered to face Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 315. Saint Denis instead selected Kyle Prepolec as a short-notice replacement.
Matchmaker Sean Shelby took notice of Nallo’s willingness to step up on short notice. Shelby offered him a slot on Dana White’s Contender Series despite his age.
Contender Series breakout
On the Contender Series, Nallo stopped Cage Warriors champion Samuel Silva. Silva was finished by punches in the first round.
UFC officials, including Dana White, praised the performance. The result earned Nallo a UFC contract.
UFC Winnipeg debut
UFC Winnipeg will feature Mandel Nallo in a key matchup. He makes his promotional debut against Jai Herbert.
The bout headlines UFC Fight Night 273 at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The fight arrives nearly 17 years after Nallo’s first professional contest.
Ambition and outlook
Nallo remains motivated and focused on improvement. He aims beyond a debut, setting his sights on a world title.
His path reflects long-term development within Tristar. Filmogaz.com will follow his performance in Winnipeg closely.
