Islam Makhachev explains preference for Morales over Garry

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev wants Michael Morales over Ian Garry for his next title defense because the Ecuadorian contender is still undefeated.

Makhachev is slated to defend his 170-pound belt in August, with Garry widely considered the frontrunner for the shot. But the champion told Red Corner MMA that Morales carries more appeal from a legacy standpoint. "If we pick between Morales and Ian, to be honest with you, in terms of my legacy, I would go with Morales," Makhachev said, per Sherdog. "Why? Because he's still undefeated. If I beat Ian Garry, some will say, 'Shavkat beat him too a few fights ago.'"

Where Morales and Garry Stand in the Welterweight Queue

Morales knocked out Sean Brady at UFC 322 last November to push his record to 19-0, while Garry scored a decision win over Belal Muhammad a week later despite holding one career loss to Shavkat Chimaev. Makhachev acknowledged both are legitimate contenders but doubled down on his original preference for facing Kamaru Usman, a matchup the division has mostly written off. He believes the former champion would still beat both Garry and Morales if matched against them.

Carlos Prates is also in the mix after stopping Leon Edwards and Jack Della Maddalena, though Prates himself expects Garry to get the nod. No opponent has been finalized for Makhachev's August date.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Why Islam Makhachev prefers fighting undefeated contender over Ian Garry