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

Ilia Topuria e Islam makhachev These are big names in the UFC. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage.

Still without a defined opponent for his first title defense, Islam makhachev There are several contenders to challenge in the dangerous and revamped welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg). Even with names like Carlos Prates and Ian GaryMany fans and members of the media do not rule out a super fight with Ilia TopuriaHowever, for the Russian, there is a name that poses a greater threat than the Georgian/Spanish one, especially in the area of ​​exchanges: MichaelMorales.

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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.

MichaelMorales at a UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

PUBLICITY:

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 Durinho e Sean bradyIn total, only four opponents lasted until the end of regulation time without being overtaken in the fast lane.