Elite British welterweights are set to headline Cage Warriors 205 in Glasgow. Reigning champion Justin Burlinson will make his first title defense in what promises to be a challenging environment, facing Sean Clancy Jr.
Justin Burlinson: The Comeback King
Defending welterweight champion Justin Burlinson secured his title just under a year ago with a decisive victory over James Sheehan in Dublin. This weekend, his championship reign faces its first test, also in hostile territory. Burlinson’s journey has not been without setbacks; in 2021, he suffered a first-round knockout loss on DWCS to Yohan Lainesse. At the time of that fight, Burlinson was only 6-0 and relatively inexperienced.
He rebounded with a win, but later faced another defeat when competing for the Cage Warriors 170lbs belt in 2022 against Rhys McKee. Since that fight, Burlinson has remained undefeated and maintains a perfect finishing rate. He consistently delivers exciting performances and demonstrated remarkable resilience in his title-winning bout against Sheehan, overcoming adversity to claim the belt dramatically.
Burlinson had a second opportunity to showcase his skills in the UFC spotlight in late 2025, traveling to Doha for the inaugural UFC Qatar event with hopes of securing a late call-up. However, the opportunity did not materialize. This weekend, Burlinson returns to Cage Warriors, potentially earning his chance in more emphatic fashion.
Sean Clancy Jr: Destined for UFC Gold?
At just 23 years old and hailing from Paisley, Scotland, Sean Clancy Jr. is regarded as one of the sport’s most promising talents. This Saturday, he aims to amplify the already fervent anticipation surrounding his career. With an undefeated record of 8-0 and a perfect finishing rate, similar to his English opponent, Clancy Jr. poses a significant threat in all facets of the fight. His rapid striking combined with an aggressive grappling game suggests championship potential.
The Scottish fighter has been on the cusp of welterweight contention for some time. In December, he captured the interim belt with an outstanding performance. As Burlinson was unavailable to compete at the end of 2025, Clancy Jr. faced the experienced Dutchman Melvin van Suijdam for the interim title. He emerged victorious with a spectacular second-round knockout, landing a precise right and left hook combination.
Many believe this bout is not only for the unified Cage Warriors Welterweight title but also serves as a potential pathway to the major leagues, the UFC.
Who do you anticipate will emerge victorious and potentially secure a coveted UFC contract?