Islam Makhachev Eyes Michael Morales as Next Opponent, Issues Brutal Submission Threat
Islam Makhachev ended 2025 by becoming a double champion after defeating Jack Della Maddalena decisively at UFC 322. The performance impressed fans worldwide, increasing excitement about his next fight and expectations surrounding his future welterweight championship reign.
According to the Dagestani champion, he aims to secure the most welterweight title defenses in history and establish a legacy. Makhachev has already mentioned respected names like veteran Kamaru Usman while considering possible opponents for upcoming title defenses.
However, many fans and experts prefer him facing younger rising contenders to test his dominance against fresh competitive challenges in the division. Recently, Makhachev discussed Michael Morales, expressing interest in that matchup and acknowledging the young contender’s growing reputation and momentum.
“Morales was not undefeated a few days ago, but today he’s undefeated again. I don’t know how they removed it. I saw the cage fight—he got choked out, and then they announced it was an exhibition match. Well then, he needs to be choked out again,” said Islam Makhachev via Match TV.
Michael Morales impressed fans in his last fight, securing a dominant win against Sean Brady via TKO. The Ecuadorian showcased crisp boxing, improving takedown defense, and calculated aggression, making him a real threat.
Following his win, Morales boldly called out Islam Makhachev, believing his size and striking could challenge the pound-for-pound king’s suffocating dominance. Morales’ sharp striking against Makhachev’s relentless wrestling promises a fascinating chess match, where positioning, balance, and endurance will decide everything.
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Nick Diaz breaks down Islam Makhachev’s wrestling dominance
Islam Makhachev has dominated elite fighters with relentless wrestling pressure, flawless transitions, and submission skills that consistently break opponents. His devastating D’arce choke remains a signature weapon, trapping rivals like Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano.
Makhachev used that pressure against Jack Della Maddalena, closing space and asserting total control throughout the contest. Veteran Nick Diaz recently discussed the fight and explained what JDM should have done not to get dominated.
“You watch this fight with Islam and the f*cking Australian. The poor guy is like I don’t feel sorry for him cause he needs to learn to get up… I’m like, you didn’t learn how to like, you know what I mean, go back and systematically understand why a black belt is putting in passing your guard or cause you can’t tell me I wouldn’t pass your guard. If that was me, I would,” said Nick Diaz via Jake Shields YouTube.
Apart from wrestling, Islam Makhachev continues evolving on the feet, confidently trading with elite strikers. Often considered a complete fighter, Makhachev has earned respect from legends like Jon Jones for his consistency. He recently discussed returning after Ramadan, possibly targeting a blockbuster appearance at the White House event.
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