Memphian Danny Barlow Prepares to make UFC Debut

The newest Welterweight of the UFC comes right from the Westwood neighborhood of Memphis. His journey to the ring wasn’t always a part of his journey and despite his inexperience, he found success and a contract with the UFC.

Memphis-native Danny Barlow is set to make his debut at UFC 298 in Anaheim, California, on February 17, 2024. Ahead of his octagon debut, we got to know more about the Westwood High graduate.

two photos of Danny Barlow
4thowzen Media

Barlow’s shining moment came during Dana White’s Contender Series in September of 2023. With a 79 second finish, Barlow won the competition earning himself a signed contract with the UFC.

Our interview with Danny Barlow:

How did you get involved in competitive fighting? 

I always competed in other sports, so the competitive spirit was always there but with fighting it started when I was in between college basketball and planning to go to the Olympics. The movie Creed came out and that is what inspired me to take my competitive spirit into the fight world.

What separates you from other competitive fighters? 

My Faith, purpose and swag which gives me the calm in the storm and that chill in the thrill demeanor.

Danny Barlow holds fist in air in Memphis hoodie
4thowzen Media

Were there any hurdles you had to overcome to get to this point?

Yes, many hurdles! One of the greatest hurdles I’ve faced was fighting at a high level with little experience. I’m only getting better though!

How has Memphis motivated you?

It has motivated me extremely with the many positives and also with the many negatives. I needed it all for fuel to get me where I'm going. 

What was it like participating in Dana White's Contender Series and ultimately getting signed to a contract with the UFC?

It was unreal. It was definitely a new level of accomplishment. It was a lot of pressure to properly represent for my team and city. Even though I had a lot of people in my corner, I still had to get in that cage and fight for everything by myself to get what we all came for. I became a true diamond that night.

How are you feeling ahead of your UFC debut? 

I’M FEELING GOOD BABY!!!!

Barlow’s debut on February 17 will be against Yusaku Kinoshita. Until then, follow his journey through his Instagram page.

Danny barlow in ring
4thowzen Media
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About the Author

Hello! I'm Jalyn Souchek, the Director of Content for I Love Memphis Blog! I love calling the 901 home. When I'm not running the blog you can find me cheering on the Grizzlies, at a concert, exploring a new restaurant or kicking back at one of our breweries. I hope you'll love experiencing Memphis with me.

Build your perfect Memphis meal:

I love to eat so if I were to have only one meal left.. I’m going all out. I’d start with an app of Gumbo Fries from Blue City Cafe or Bayou Fries from Chef Tam, wings from Good Fortune or Central’s (honey gold and Jamaican Jerk), potato salad from Fat Larry’s, side of bbq spaghetti from Bar-B-Q Shop, and fried okra from Soul Fish. All paired with a Beale Street Brewing Space Age Sippin’.

Your most memorable Memphis moment:

College GameDay on Beale Street. That was an electric and perfect morning. I was still working in news then and was able to take it in up close and on the stage at some points. The fun and joy of everyone down there that morning is unbeatable.

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