5 Defining Moments: Marc-Andre Barriault

When picturing a mixed martial arts fighter, the mind conjures the image of a formidable figure with a potent combination of strength, skill and sacrifice. While the audience has progressed beyond perceiving mixed martial arts as mere “human cockfighting,” only a handful truly encapsulate a sharp contrast that defines the archetype of a modern MMA fighter. Amidst the frigid embrace of Quebec City, where temperatures frequently linger in single digits, emerges Marc-Andre Barriault, who mirrors the essence of a modern MMA fighter and has carved a name for himself in the fiery arena of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Barriault’s tale is not just one of fights and victories but a narrative woven with distinct threads that showcase the man behind the fighter. From his culinary prowess to a glorious moment in the cage, let us explore five defining moments that have sculpted Barriault’s remarkable journey ahead of his UFC 297 showdown with Chris Curtis this Saturday in Toronto:

1. Embracing the Cold, Forging a Warrior

Born and raised in Gatineau, Quebec, Barriault’s entry into MMA was prompted by the resounding call to combat that echoed through Canada with the modern wave of MMA fighters from the region. Relocating to Quebec City in 2011 for studies, Barriault’s journey began, and he would go on to make his amateur MMA debut in 2012.

2. Culinary Artistry Beyond the Cage

Beyond the battleground, Barriault is a culinary artist who worked as a cook until he moved to Florida in 2021. Armed with a degree in dietetics and two culinary diplomas, his love for cooking became a defining trait. During the UFC 289 post-fight presser, he revealed his go-to dish to impress someone: “I really like to cook some seafood because where my dad is from, [there] is a lot of seafood—lobster, shrimp and everything. I like shrimp.”

3. In the Beginning…

Barriault’s early journey in amateur MMA under Sifu Patrick Marcil set the stage for a prolific professional career. With a record of 11–1, he clinched three championships in two different promotions: TKO Major League MMA and Hybrid Combat. The transition to the UFC in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in his career, opening doors to the world stage.

4. Rollercoaster Ride

Despite initial setbacks in the UFC, Barriault’s resilience shone through. After an up-and-down start, he secured recent victories against tough opponents like Eryk Anders and Julian Marquez, showcasing his ability to rebound and adapt in the elite ranks.

5. Alter Ego

Outside the Octagon, Barriault breaks stereotypes associated with combat sports. Described as a calm force by his friend in a past interview with Le Soleil, he defies the conventional image of a fighter, proving that combat prowess can coexist with kindness. The “good boy werewolf” personality emerged, transforming from a calm presence as a cook in Quebec hospitals by day to a formidable force in the cage by night.