Islam Makhachev dismisses Ilia Topuria and chooses another, more dangerous knockout artist; understand why.

Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev are big names in the UFC. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage.

Still without a defined opponent for his first title defense, Islam Makhachev has several potential challengers in the dangerous and revamped welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg). Even with names like Carlos Prates and Ian Garry , many fans and media members don't rule out a super fight with Ilia Topuria . However, for the Russian, there is one name that poses a greater threat than the Georgian/Spanish fighter, especially in the striking department: Michael Morales.

See too

Shocking! Sean Strickland loses his temper and attacks Bad Bunny, the NFL, and the LGBTQIAPN+ community: 'Mental illness'

Harsh! Sean Strickland sparks controversy and slams Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano, belittling women: 'I masturbated'

Alex Poatan analyzes Tom Aspinall's recovery and admits concern about the post-surgical photo.

While he respects the Georgian/Spanish fighter's achievements, Makhachev doesn't believe Topuria's firepower has the same effect in the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg) compared to the featherweight (up to 65,7 kg) and lightweight (up to 70,3 kg) divisions. On the other hand, the Ecuadorian seems to be very well adapted to the weight class.

“I think Morales is much more dangerous as a boxer. He knocks out his opponents with practically every punch he lands. I don’t see Topuria being as dangerous at 77 kg as he is at 70 kg, because the size, weight and height are different. It will be much easier for the welterweights to fight against Topuria. I don’t see any danger coming from Topuria if he moves up to 77 kg,” said the champion in an interview with Ushatayka this Thursday (19).

Islam Makhachev says Morales is far more dangerous as a puncher and doesn't see Topuria being a threat at 170.

"I think Morales is way more dangerous as a puncher. He puts people to sleep with damn near every shot he lands. I don't see Topuria being as dangerous at 170 as he is… pic.twitter.com/0gQLQgRXdr

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 19, 2026

Like Topuria, Morales is undefeated in MMA.

Michael Morales at a UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

At just 26 years old, Morales is one of the UFC's most promising fighters today. Ranked third in the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg), he is undefeated in 19 fights and has knockout victories against Gilbert Burns and Sean Brady . In total, only four opponents have lasted until the end of regulation time without being knocked out.

Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.