Michael Morales Renews Call for Islam Makhachev Welterweight Title Fight, Declares Readiness

Welterweight contender Michael Morales, ranked No. 3 and fresh off a first-round knockout victory over Sean Brady at UFC 322, is once again setting his sights on a championship bout against Islam Makhachev.

Meanwhile, the reigning champion, Makhachev, is anticipated to make his initial defense of the 170-pound title in August, with an official announcement regarding his opponent and the exact date expected shortly.

In a recent conversation, Morales, 26, expressed confidence in his claim as the next welterweight title challenger, stating:

“If God allows it, yes. We are looking for that fight with him [Islam Makhachev]. They already gave us excuses over there to not fight. But I’m willing. I’m willing one hundred percent.”

He further elaborated on his respect for Makhachev, acknowledging:

“I’m not going to take away merit from my rival because Islam is a legendary fighter. He has done his thing and already has two titles, but I have also come with that hunger to win the title.”

Reports indicate that a potential January bout between Morales and Makhachev was discussed by the UFC. However, both fighters reportedly declined the offer. Makhachev cited insufficient time for preparation following a November fight the previous year, while Morales, having competed at UFC 322, opted for rest and recovery instead of an immediate title challenge in January 2026.

Morales Expresses Strong Dislike for Ian Machado Garry

In the same interview, Michael Morales openly admitted his strong animosity towards the No. 2 welterweight contender, Ian Machado Garry. Morales suggested that a confrontation with Garry would elicit an unprecedentedly aggressive approach from him.

“I do hate him [Ian Machado Garry]. I don’t have a very good feeling about him. Yeah, I do like him a little bit, but at the end of the day he’s a fighter too, and I’m not going to get overconfident. I also have to prepare myself if I want to fight him. The fight would be very intense if it happens, but I’d like to face him.”

“A long time ago at the performance in Las Vegas, we had a run-in, but since there was no camera, there was nothing to prove it. I know what he did… I’ve said with him it’s always a completely different fight. If I were to fight him, it would be the first time I would do it in a very aggressive way.”

The welterweight title picture suggests that either Morales or Garry could be the next challenger for Islam Makhachev, as both have repeatedly called out the reigning champion. Morales has even suggested he might have already signed a contract for a Makhachev bout. Conversely, Garry has openly expressed his frustration with the delays, attributing them to Makhachev's perceived inactivity as a UFC champion.