Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
MichaelMorales says he had the opportunity to face Islam makhachev, but the duel did not progress. After winning Sean brady No. UFC 322The Ecuadorian has 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 has 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,” he said. MichaelMorales, in an interview with Carlos Contreras Legaspi.
Islam Makhachev's manager explains the situation.
Although the accusation of MichaelMorales has generated repercussions and called into question the stance of Islam makhachevThe champion's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, clarified the situation. In an interview with MMA Junkie, the manager revealed that the UFC had contacted Makhachev earlier in the year to offer him a main event fight, but the bout ultimately fell through.
According to Abdelaziz, Islam evaluated the proposal, but was discouraged by Khabib Nurmagomedov to accept the commitment at that moment. The businessman also added that other names were being considered by the organization for the date, among them Kamaru Usman e Ian GaryThis demonstrates that different scenarios were discussed before the card was finalized.
“Even the UFC contacted me; they wanted Islam to headline a fight 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 Khabib's.” Ian Gary“Ali Abdelaziz stated.
Who will face Islam Makhachev for the UFC title?
After dominate Jack Della Maddalena and win the UFC welterweight belt, Islam makhachev He became the main target of one of the most competitive divisions in the organization.
In the race for a title shot, they stand out. Carlos Prates e MichaelMorales, who, with knockout victories in UFC 322, emerged as favorite options among the public. Another strong contender is Ian Gary, buoyed by a major triumph over Belal Muhammad | No. UFC Qatar.
In addition to the trio of prospects, Kamaru Usman He's an outsider. 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 fight for the belt.
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