In recent years, the UFC’s hardest division has unanimously been considered to be the 155-pounders. However, in the past year, a new division has risen, full of young, hungry and incredibly skilled fighters. Welterweight had become a division full of familiar faces, with the reign of Kamaru Usman slowing the division’s momentum. The “Nigerian Nightmare” seemed unbeatable, dispatching any challenger thrown his way. Nevertheless, things can change in the blink of an eye, or in MMA terms, the landing of a high kick. Leon Edwards not only shocked the world, but also shook the division to life by knocking out the champion, Usman. Since then, new contenders have risen, and 170 pounds has transformed from predictable tides into shark-infested waters. This past weekend, a new apex predator was born, dispatching a legend with ease. So, after 6 straight wins in the UFC, what’s next for Michael Morales?
One for the Rankings – Leon “Rocky” Edwards
Following his incredible first-round stoppage of Burns, Morales called for a top 5-6 opponent. Looking through that list, one man stands out as the fight to make: Leon Edwards. Following consecutive poor performances in main event spots, Edwards is likely in line for a fight outside the top 5 – enter Morales. This fight makes sense for a multitude of reasons. “Rocky” has faced wrestler after wrestler, his last 5 fights coming against 4 established and relentless grapplers. Morales would present a fresh, exciting challenge, and whilst the Ecuadorian has shown a high level of wrestling in his career, striking is his home. One can only imagine the exchanges these two could provide on the feet, the length and power of Morales vs the precision and technique of Edwards. It is a feast for the mind. The #4-ranked Edwards would also provide the perfect platform for Morales to call for his title shot, should he leave the fight victorious. No matter how you look at this one, it makes sense. Both fighters would benefit, Morales through the rankings, and Edwards through enjoying a striking battle finally. This is the fight to make. However, of course, in MMA, you do not always get your first wish, so let us look at another potentially enticing matchup for the rising Morales.
One for the Fans – Carlos “The Nightmare” Prates
I know what you are thinking, why would Morales fight down after such an impressive win? Well, if the Edwards fight does not come to fruition, there may not be too many other options for the Ecuadorian. With fighters above him already booked and others clearly not rushing for a fight with the powerhouse, he may have to look down for his next fight. If this is to be the case, why not fight the guy with the biggest following? Prates has developed quite a fanbase since entering the UFC in 2023. Along with his gym, “The Fighting Nerds”, Prates has become a real fan favourite. His most recent main event fight with Ian Garry showed a real steel and championship level of ability despite the loss. Despite his #13 ranking, Carlos Prates has all the skill and following of a top-5 fighter. A fight and win over the Brazilian would leave no option but to push Morales into the top 5 of the division, something he desperately desires. However, despite all the logic for the fighters, this would be a fan-friendly firefight with real stakes. Two men with dynamite in their hands, confidence in their abilities, and a hunger to finish every fight they enter. This would be must-watch TV, with a stoppage victory surely in store no matter the victor.
Michael Morales looks to be a serious threat in the welterweight division, with his dominant win over Gilbert Burns putting every 170-pound fighter on notice. A win in his next fight could see him in line for a title shot. Will it be Edwards? Will it be Prates? Only time will tell.
Subscribe
