One top contender knows exactly how to go after the UFC welterweight champion.
Islam Makhachev’s first title defense at 170 pounds could go a few different ways, following his move up from lightweight and subsequent win last November.
The Dagestani didn’t just move up – he settled in immediately, comfortably handling Jack Della Maddalena to kick off his reign over the division.
Michael Morales is among those eager to put an early end to it. And if the Ecuadorian gets his shot, he won’t be approaching Makhachev with any awe of his legacy.
Michael Morales explains his approach to potential title fight against Islam Makhachev
Morales also made headlines at the same Madison Square Garden event, stopping Sean Brady in a highlight-reel finish.
The 26-year-old moved to 19-0 in MMA with that win, putting him in the No. 3 spot in the welterweight rankings.
That puts him right in the mix for a title shot. And if he does get his chance, Morales isn’t planning to show much deference to Makhachev’s reputation.
“I won’t show him much respect,” Morales said on MMA Junkie’s Hablemos MMA show.
“He’s an athlete just like me. He’s a person just like me. He bleeds just like me. I just see him as a person who I want to take the title from.
“Sure, he has his legacy and history, but that’s his, not mine,” he continued. “I’ve worked hard to get what I have, so I won’t give him that respect of, ‘Oh, he’s the champion. I have to give him all the praise.’
“No, I also want to be champion. I’ve set in my head that I’m going to work hard to take the title away from somebody. That’s my dream and that’s my priority. I don’t care who I have to beat.
Makhachev appears set for a long reign at welterweight after dominating Jack Della Maddalena in November last year…unless someone can step up and stop it before it really gets going.
Islam Makhachev has a different preference for his first UFC welterweight title defense
Morales will have to wait and see if he gets his shot, especially since Makhachev has his own plans for who he wants to face next.
After taking the welterweight belt, Makhachev made it clear that Kamaru Usman is at the top of his list, preferring a fight with the former champion over names like Morales or Ian Machado Garry.
Not everyone agrees with that choice. Some fans and analysts don’t think Usman should be in the title conversation yet, given that he’s only picked up one win since 2021.
Whether the UFC decides to go along with Makhachev’s pick or chooses another route remains to be seen.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
