Islam Makhachev is a former UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India
Although it's still undecided who will be Islam Makhachev's first opponent for the welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg), Michael Morales is undoubtedly one of the main threats to the Russian's belt in the short term. At only 26 years old and undefeated in 19 professional fights, the Ecuadorian is coming off a devastating knockout victory against Sean Brady in November. In this context, even though he is known for his striking skills, the prodigy is not afraid to go to the ground.
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In an interview with MMA Junkie last Monday (2), Morales acknowledged the champion's talent, but also highlighted his effort and development in grappling modalities.
“I’ve fought many strong guys: high-level fighters in ATOS, fighters in Entram, and I’m difficult to deal with on the ground. I don’t know exactly how I do it, but I always get back up and have very quick escapes. I think he can’t hold me. I don’t want to rush things, because you never know how the fight will unfold, but I like to fight standing up, look for openings, work my boxing, but if the fight goes to the ground, I’ll be ready to deal with him there,” stated the Ecuadorian, who was a national freestyle wrestling champion.
WTFFFFF!!!!!!!! 😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱
MICHAEL MORALES ! 🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡 pic.twitter.com/4yuhfnPoZd
— Cage Pulse (@Cage_PulseMMA) November 16, 2025
Morales spoke about Makhachev's abilities.
Morales focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Commenting on Islam's game, Morales said he didn't believe there would be any major changes in his potential opponent's abilities, but stressed that he was a well-rounded athlete capable of defending himself effectively.
“Everyone knows his game, which is to wrestle to the death, submit, and end the fight. He’s knocked people out very few times. Everyone knows his game. If the fight is difficult standing up, he’ll go to the ground and look for a quick submission. And if the fight is difficult on the ground, he’ll keep his distance. However, I’m unorthodox. I know how to wrestle, I know how to strike, I know how to do everything. I’m preparing in all areas, but I don’t think he could exchange strikes with me. I have a lot of distance, I’m tall, but we’ll see what happens,” he concluded.
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