The UFC welterweight division is filled with killers at every ranking spot. But one impressive win can shoot a fighter high up the ladder. Michael Morales has been quietly building his case as one of the division’s most dangerous prospects since joining the promotion through Dana White’s Contender Series. The undefeated Ecuadorian has shown steady improvement with each octagon appearance, displaying the kind of fight IQ and physical gifts that make matchmakers take notice. His perfect professional record had earned him a big step up in competition at UFC Vegas 106.<\/p>
That step up came in the form of Gilbert Burns, a former title challenger and perennial top-10 fixture in the division. Many thought this might be too much, too soon for the young prospect. But Morales silenced the doubters with a spectacular first-round TKO victory that sent shockwaves through the division. Not only did he beat a veteran contender, but he finished him in the first round itself. It is only natural that Morales would have his sights set on another big name.<\/p>
Also Read: UFC Vegas 106 Result: Michael Morales Dispatches Gilbert Burns Early, Keeps His Undefeated Record<\/a><\/p> Morales wasted no time in naming his desired opponent as he called out Ian Garry. The callout of Garry wasn’t random or impulsive. The undefeated Irish prospect has been making waves of his own in the division, building an impressive UFC resume with flashy striking. A matchup between two young welterweights would be promotional gold for the UFC<\/a>, a chance to establish which of these rising stars truly belongs in the title picture.<\/p> There’s just one problem with Morales’ plan. Garry recently scored a decisive victory over another undefeated fighter, Carlos Prates and has made it clear he is looking at title contention, not sideways moves against lower-ranked opponents. Morales seems to understand this reality.<\/p> “I have talked about Ian Garry. That’s the fighter i have always wanted to fight. But he won his last fight so he is looking up at the rankings, so that might not happen… If they can make that happen [for me to fight] the 6th, the 5th, the 4th in the ranking and we will take any opportunity that God gives us.”<\/em><\/strong><\/p>Michael Morales Calls Out Ian Garry<\/h2>