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Michael Morales news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Michael Morales serves as backup for UFC 330's Makhachev-Garry welterweight title fight on August 15.
His extreme weight cut and title-shot claims fuel division debate.
Background
Michael Morales, an undefeated welterweight, is the official backup for the UFC 330 main event between champion Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry. His role has sparked discussions about his weight-cutting prowess and his claim to a future title shot, with fellow contender Carlos Prates also vying for the opportunity.
How it unfolded
- Aug 10, 2026Carlos Prates predicts Ian Machado Garry will beat Islam Makhachev by decision, continuing his pursuit of the winner.
- Aug 11, 2026Joe Rogan suggests Islam Makhachev could retire after UFC 330, potentially setting up a vacant title fight between Michael Morales and Carlos Prates.
- Aug 12, 2026Rogan reiterates retirement possibility, saying Makhachev has 'done a lot' and could follow Khabib's path.
- Aug 13, 2026Joe Rogan highlights Morales's extreme weight cut for the backup role; Ian Machado Garry says only Carlos Prates deserves the next title shot after he beats Makhachev.
- Aug 15, 2026Michael Morales reveals why he dislikes Ian Machado Garry as he heads into UFC 330 backup position.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Joe Rogan praises Morales's weight-cutting and sees a potential fight between Morales and Prates for the title if Makhachev retires.
- Party
- Ian Machado Garry states that only Carlos Prates deserves the next title shot after he beats Makhachev, dismissing Morales's claim.
- Support
- Morales's fans assert he deserves a title shot against the Makhachev-Garry winner.
- Caution
- Carlos Prates's supporters believe he is more worthy of a title shot than Morales.
Still unverified
Joe Rogan's speculation that Islam Makhachev might retire after UFC 330 is not confirmed by Makhachev or his team.