Michael Morales has one identify on his thoughts: Islam Makhachev. The No. 3-ranked welterweight contender who knocked out Sean Brady in Spherical 1 at UFC 322 is now itching to return to the octagon to struggle champion Makhachev.
The Russian, however, is predicted to make the primary protection of his 170-pound strap in August, and an official announcement concerning the date and opponent is predicted quickly.
Throughout a current interview with Alvaro Colmenero, when Morales was requested if he believes he’s the following welterweight title challenger, the 26-year-old stated:
“If God permits it, sure. We’re on the lookout for that struggle with him [Islam Makhachev]. They already gave us excuses over there to not struggle. However I’m keen. I’m keen a hundred percent.”
He added:
“I’m not going to remove advantage from my rival as a result of Islam is a legendary fighter. He has finished his factor and already has two titles, however I’ve additionally include that starvation to win the title.”
Try Michael Morales’ feedback beneath:
Morales and Makhachev had been beforehand rumored to struggle in January, and per experiences, the UFC brass reached out to each fighters with the supply, they usually each declined. Makhachev didn’t have ample time to arrange as he had simply fought final 12 months in November. Morales, too, fought at UFC 322 and wished relaxation and restoration over a title struggle in January 2026.
Michael Morales sends warning to Ian Machado Garry
Throughout the identical interview, Michael Morales admitted that he hates No. 2 welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry. Morales added that if he had been to lock horns with the Dubliner anytime quickly, it will be the primary time he would struggle a really aggressive struggle.
“I do hate him [Ian Machado Garry]. I don’t have an excellent feeling about him. Yeah, I do like him a bit bit, however on the finish of the day he’s a fighter too, and I’m not going to get overconfident. I even have to arrange myself if I need to struggle him. The struggle can be very intense if it occurs, however I’d prefer to face him.”
“A very long time in the past on the efficiency in Las Vegas, we had a run-in, however since there was no digicam, there was nothing to show it. I do know what he did… I’ve stated with him it’s all the time a very totally different struggle. If I had been to struggle him, it will be the primary time I might do it in a really aggressive means.”
Try Michael Morales’ feedback beneath:
Both “The Future” or the Ecuadorian is predicted to be subsequent in line to face Islam Makhachev. Each fighters have already known as out the pound-for-pound king a number of instances. Morales has beforehand hinted that he has signed a contract to face Makhachev.
Garry, however, has voiced frustration over the delay and has blamed the 34-year-old Russian for not being an lively UFC champion.
