Makhachev, Morales Trade Barbs After Record Ruling as Welterweight Title Plans Take Shape
The dispute follows Tapology’s decision to treat a 2017 Morales bout as an exhibition, preserving his 19-0 record.
Overview
- Islam Makhachev told Match TV that Michael Morales “needs to be choked out again,” citing video of a 2017 submission.
- Michael Morales replied on X by pointing to Makhachev’s 2015 knockout loss and vowing to repeat it.
- Tapology confirmed it reversed recent entries from Ecuador’s Ultima Pelea and classified them as exhibitions, keeping Morales unbeaten.
- A January matchup was discussed by the UFC but declined by both camps, with Makhachev targeting a return after Ramadan 2026.
- Makhachev has floated Kamaru Usman as a preferred first defense and remains open to other options as Morales explores fights like Jack Della Maddalena.