Michael Morales is making it clear that he’s targeting the top contenders of the 170-pound division, but Ian Machado Garry wonders if he truly wants the smoke.
Morales has been surging at welterweight with his last victory being the biggest of his career against Sean Brady. The only problem is, a full year is about to pass since that fight and Morales hasn’t been seen inside the Octagon since. Still, Morales feels he’s the best contender for Islam Makhachev’s 170-pound gold.
In a video posted on social media, Morales had a message for the reigning champion (h/t MMAFighting).
“Islam, since you came to my division and took the belt, I have been asking for the fight,” Morales said. “You know who I am. You said Morales is way more dangerous. You also said I need one more fight, and about [Carlos] Prates and me, you said, ‘Let them fight.’ Alright, I respect that, but after that, no more excuses. You and me for the belt.”
Morales also took a dig at Carlos Prates, calling him a weaker challenger for Makhachev’s gold before turning his attention to Shavkat Rakhmonov.
I want the hard fight,” Morales continued. “I want the great fighters. I want the fights the people are going to remember, but if you guys have different plans, Islam, if you prefer Prates because you prefer an easy fighter, I have mine for 2027.
“The final boss of this division, Shavkat Rakhmonov. You know where to find me.”
Morales then threw in a quick, “F*ck Ian Garry” to cap off his rant. “The Future” responded by questioning if Morales will actually return to competition.
“I’ve said YES,” Garry fired back. “The date is locked in. Main event and you’re making excuses already. UFC sent the date. I dm’d you myself. You make it all public but behind the scenes I’m getting a different message. The world knows I’m anyone anytime… How long has it been since he’s fought?”
Many believe Morales vs. Garry is the right fight to book if the plan is for Makhachev to put his welterweight gold at stake against Prates. We’ll see how things ultimately shake out.
What do you make of Michael Morales’ inactivity? Did he miss out on a title shot for now? Drop your take in the comments below.
This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM
