After months of waiting and uncertainty, the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg) seems to be finally taking the expected course. In addition to the official confirmation that... Islam makhachev will defend the title for the first time against Ian Gary in the main fight of UFC 330, the official reserve for the match was revealed last Thursday (25). One of the most imposing athletes of today, MichaelMorales He will be prepared to step into the world's most famous octagon should either of the two involved be unable to participate in the event. This information was first reported by journalist Carlos Legaspi.
According to the Spanish journalist, initially the Ecuadorian is expected to be only a reserve fighter, but there is also the possibility of him participating in another fight. Undefeated in 19 professional fights, Morales comes from big knockout victories against... Gilbert Durinho e Sean brady, in addition to occupying the third position in the category ranking.
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MichaelMorales is the official backup fighter for UFC 330.
The UFC told me I would be the replacement if Makhachev or Machado Garry are unable to compete. They also mentioned the possibility of taking another fight.
Either way, I'll be ready and on weight.
[Street @CCLegaspi] pic.twitter.com/dY1NwkNjaN
— Verdict (@VerdictMMA) June 25, 2026
Could Michael Morales face Carlos Prates in the UFC?
Prates at the Ultimate press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC
If another fight is offered to Morales, the possibility of a confrontation with [name missing] could arise. Carlos Prates, ranked first in the category, and who is coming off a great knockout victory against Jack Della Maddalena right there in Perth, in March of this year.
Read More about: Welterweight belt, Ian Gary, Islam makhachev, MichaelMorales
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