“He Bleeds!” Michael Morales Issues Cold Warning to P4P #1 Fighter Islam Makhachev

Top welterweight contender Michael Morales talks about his mindset ahead of a potential encounter against Islam Makhachev in a title clash.

“He Bleeds!” Michael Morales Issues Cold Warning to P4P #1 Fighter Islam Makhachev

Michael Morales vs. Islam Makhachev for the welterweight championship might happen next (via X)

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It’s been months since Islam Makhachev captured the UFC welterweight title by decisively defeating Jack Della Maddalena. The dominant showdown further cemented the Dagestani superstar’s reputation as one of the most dangerous and complete fighters today. As expected, top welterweight contenders, including Michael Morales, are eager for an Octagon clash against the newly crowned champion. 

Islam Makhachev is unbeaten in his last 16 fights, equaling Anderson Silva’s historic streak and further solidifying his elite championship legacy. The champion has evolved his striking significantly while showcasing unparalleled ground mastery through suffocating pressure, judo trips, and dangerous submissions.

Despite these advantages, Michael Morales remains unfazed, confident in his abilities, and fully prepared to embrace the toughest challenge. In a recent interview, Morales discussed his focused mentality and fearless mindset heading into a potential title clash.. 

I won’t show him much respect. 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. I’m not going to idolize anyone. I don’t care if it’s against Makhachev or anyone else. I want to be champion, and I’m preparing very hard to do that.

Michael Morales via Hablemos MMA show

Michael Morales is undefeated and has defeated elite opponents like Gilbert Burns and Sean Brady convincingly. The Ecuadorian fighter possesses dangerous striking, solid grappling, and well-rounded skills that make him an ideal challenger for Makhachev. Morales’ recent online antics have sparked mixed reactions among fans, yet they hardly diminish his championship potential or readiness overall.

Despite distractions, Morales continues focusing on improvement, confidence, and preparation for a possible title opportunity against elite competition. Following the recent removal of Shavkat Rakhmonov from the welterweight rankings, Morales currently sits at the #3-ranked fighter in the division. Islam Makhachev has also talked about the young contender and has issued a submission threat against Morales. 

Apart from him, Ian Garry and Carlos Prates are aggressively chasing a welterweight title opportunity with strong momentum. Former champion Kamaru Usman remains in contention, yet fans and experts increasingly favor younger contenders for the spotlight. It will be fascinating to see who the UFC ultimately chooses as Islam Makhachev’s next welterweight challenger.

Former UFC champion talks about the dream fight between Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria 

Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev became a dream matchup once ‘El Matador’ announced plans to move divisions upward. At that time, Makhachev vacated the lightweight title and captured a second UFC belt at welterweight through a dominant championship performance.

Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria dream fight soon
Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria dream fight soon (via X)

Despite circumstances, trash talk and bad blood between the two fighters have existed for months across interviews, media appearances, and online debates. Topuria is famous for spectacular knockouts against elite names, including Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway, thrilling global audiences. 

After Makhachev dominated Jack Della Maddalena, Topuria criticized him publicly, labeling the champion boring for relying on wrestling. Makhachev avoided hostile responses, staying composed while expressing readiness for a massive clash someday if circumstances align properly. Recently, former champion and Topuria’s friend Merab Dvalishvili discussed the matchup and gave fans a potential timeline.

I know some details from Ilia. It might happen sooner than we imagine.

Merab Dvalishvili via adjarabet.com

Currently, Ilia Topuria is expected to fight the newly crowned interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, potentially at the White House event. Going into the fight, Gaethje is the underdog given Topuria’s striking composure and knockout power. On the other hand, Makhachev will probably fight after Ramadan, making a potential clash between him and Topuria possible later in 2026. 

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