UFC rising star Michael Morales signals preferred opponent via Instagram

Michael Morales has not stepped into the Octagon since November 2025. That night time, he secured a press release win over Sean Brady to proceed his rise within the welterweight division.

Since then, the Ecuadorian prospect has remained inactive. He doesn’t at present have a struggle booked, which factors in direction of a return no sooner than July.

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Regardless of that uncertainty, Morales has now offered a transparent indication of his intentions. The rising contender publicly hinted on the opponent he desires subsequent, and it isn’t a title struggle.

Michael Morales hints at showdown with Carlos Prates

Morales shared an image on his Instagram profile alongside Carlos Prates. The timing of the publish strongly suggests he’s concentrating on a conflict with the Brazilian contender.

The picture got here simply someday after ‘The Nightmare’ delivered one other standout efficiency. The Brazilian striker dominated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth, marking his second consecutive knockout over a former champion.

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That consequence additional elevated Prates’ standing inside the division. It additionally made Morales’ publish extra important, as he seems eager to check himself towards probably the most harmful names in that weight class.

Nonetheless, Prates has a unique focus at this stage. Talking after the struggle, he made it clear he’s now not excited by dealing with contenders.

As a substitute, ‘The Nightmare’ expects his subsequent look to be for the welterweight title. That stance may complicate any potential matchup with Morales within the quick time period.

Welterweight title image continues to take form

The title scenario within the division is changing into clearer. Islam Makhachev has already confirmed he’s getting ready for his subsequent struggle.

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The Dagestani star is anticipated to face Ian Machado Garry in August.

Prates has been vocal about wanting the winner of that struggle, and his latest type has strengthened his declare for a title alternative.

In the meantime, Morales continues to be constructing in direction of that stage. Having but to face former champions, a step up in competitors seems the logical subsequent transfer.

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