Morales Calls Prates An Easy Fight For Makhachev

Michael Morales says Islam Makhachev is ducking him for Carlos Prates because the Brazilian represents an easier fight.

The undefeated welterweight contender addressed the division's title picture in an Instagram post, per Sherdog, challenging both the champion and his next likely challenger. Makhachev, who holds the 170-pound belt, previously suggested Morales and Prates should meet in a title eliminator. Morales accepted that proposition but now believes the Dagestani is avoiding him.

Morales Proposes Prates Eliminator Before Makhachev Showdown

"Islam, since you came to my division and took the belt, I have been asking for the fight," Morales wrote. "You know who I am. You said, 'Morales is way more dangerous.' You also said I need one more fight. And about Prates and me, you said, 'Let them fight.' Alright, I respect that. But after that, no more excuses. You and me for the belt."

Morales called a potential clash with Prates a "Deadpool vs. Spider-Man" matchup and said he wants the Brazilian fight because he prefers facing dangerous opposition. With Prates reportedly positioned as the front-runner for the next title shot, Morales suggested Makhachev is taking the path of least resistance.

"Prates, you said the UFC never offered you the fight with me. You said you will knock me out in the first round. Perfect, bro, let's do it," Morales continued. "I want the hard fight. I want the great fighters. I want the fights that people are gonna remember. But if you guys have different plans… Islam, if you prefer Prates because you prefer an easy fighter, I have mine for 2027."

Morales also took shots at Ian Garry, the latest title challenger, and called out Shavkat Rakhmonov, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since December 2024. The Kazakh contender is expected to return in 2027.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Michael Morales calls Carlos Prates an ‘easy’ fight for Islam Makhachev