PQD makes weight and confirms fight in the UFC. Photo: Getty Images/Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Michael PQD remains undefeated in professional MMA. With a record of 10 wins, nine by knockout, the Brazilian took advantage of the great moment he experienced after his overwhelming debut at UFC Belgrade , last Saturday (1st), to point out who he considers the fighter with the best chance of defeating Islam Makhachev . In the view of the Rio native, Michael Morales has the ideal characteristics to dethrone the current welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg).
In an exclusive interview with SUPER LUTAS , Michael highlighted the Ecuadorian's physical and technical credentials and stated that he believes Morales would be able to neutralize Makhachev's main weapon: wrestling. According to the Brazilian, the undefeated fighter's strength could make the difference in a potential title fight in the division.
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“Michael, not me, Michael Morales , is a very strong guy, he has a background in grappling, that kid over there, that kid is a bull, what is Islam going to do to him, grapple with him? The kid is twice as strong, I believe he'd weigh 90kg too, I believe he would have a great chance,” analyzed Michael PQD.
The rise of the Rio native comes at a time of ascension for Morales within the organization. Undefeated in his career, the Ecuadorian is emerging as one of the leading names of the new generation of welterweights and frequently appears among the possible future challengers for Makhachev's belt, who assumed the title after moving up from lightweight.
Paratrooper Career
Brazilian paratrooper celebrates victory in the Contender Series. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
The first athlete from Rocinha to reach the UFC, Michael PQD began his martial arts journey at age 15 and built a career marked by discipline and overcoming challenges. In 2017, the Rio de Janeiro native joined the Brazilian Army as a paratrooper, where he remained for eight years, balancing his military routine with training and commitments in martial arts.
Currently riding high after his victory in his Ultimate debut, the Brazilian is aiming for new challenges within the organization while closely following the race to the top of the division.
Check out the best moments from Michael PQD's victory at UFC Belgrade.
Must. Watch. Debut TKO!!!
Michael Oliveira with the perfect debut! World class POP in those fists scramble Oban Elliott and that is it! #UFCBelgrade
— Consensus Score (@ConsensusScore) August 1, 2026
Michael Oliveira has ARRIVED 🤯
He earns the QUICK TKO victory at #UFCBelgrade!
[LIVE NOW on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/BAO0KsUsUE
— UFC (@ufc) August 1, 2026
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
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