Welterweight giant accuses Islam Makhachev of refusing a fight in the UFC: 'He didn't want to'

Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Michael Morales claims he had the opportunity to face Islam Makhachev , but the fight didn't materialize. After defeating Sean Brady at UFC 322, the Ecuadorian established himself as one of the top rising stars in the welterweight division (up to 77 kg). Even amidst strong competition in the title race, the prospect revealed that he received important offers for fights within the UFC, including a possible bout against the Dagestani champion.

According to Morales, the UFC even presented the possibility of a fight against Jack Della Maddalena between March and April, in addition to a confrontation against Makhachev in January. However, the champion reportedly showed no interest in accepting the duel. Even so, the Ecuadorian made it clear that he is willing to face any of the aforementioned names, whether to gain more experience or to directly test his strength against the title holder.

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“The UFC told me about a possible fight against Jack in March or April. I think they also proposed a fight with Makhachev in January, but he didn't want to accept. If I can get a fight against Jack, another one to gain experience, and if it's with Makhachev, I'll accept that too,” said Michael Morales in an interview with Carlos Contreras Legaspi.

Islam Makhachev's manager explains the situation.

I. Makhachev (right) next to UFC 254. Ali Abdelaziz. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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Although Michael Morales ' accusation generated repercussions and called into question Islam Makhachev 's stance , the champion's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, sought to clarify the situation. In an interview with MMA Junkie, the manager revealed that the UFC did contact Makhachev to offer him a main event fight earlier in the year, but the bout ultimately did not materialize.

According to Abdelaziz, Islam evaluated the proposal, but was discouraged by Khabib Nurmagomedov from accepting the commitment at that time. The businessman also added that other names were being considered by the organization for the date, including Kamaru Usman and Ian Garry , which demonstrates that different scenarios were discussed before the card was finalized.

“Even the UFC contacted me; they wanted Islam to headline an event in January. He thought about it, but Khabib told him to forget about it. Honestly, Kamaru’s name was among the options for January, as was Ian Garry ’s ,” stated Ali Abdelaziz.

Who will face Islam Makhachev for the UFC title?

After dominating Jack Della Maddalena and winning the UFC welterweight title, Islam Makhachev became the main target in one of the organization's most competitive divisions.

In the race for a title shot, Carlos Prates and Michael Morales stand out , having emerged as fan favorites with their knockout victories at UFC 322. Another strong contender is Ian Garry , riding high after an important win over Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar.

Besides the trio of prospects, Kamaru Usman is also in the running. The former champion is considered one of the greatest welterweights in UFC history and is coming off a convincing victory over Joaquin Buckley , which keeps his name alive in the title fight.

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