Michael Morales’s First Real Test
This Saturday at UFC Fight Night 256, Michael Morales steps into the octagon for what is undeniably the most significant fight of his career. The 25-year-old Ecuadorian has a record of 17-0 with 12 knockouts, and he’s been rapidly climbing the Welterweight ranks. His most recent fight - a first-round TKO victory over UFC veteran Neil Magny - showcased his ability to strike with the best of them and solidified his status as a rising star. However, facing Gilbert Burns, a crafty veteran who’s challenged for the belt and went to war with future champions, will represent a new level of competition for Morales.
Morales was signed by Dana White from the Contender Series. From there, he would make his UFC debut against Trevin Giles and win via first-round TKO. He’d continue this moment with another TKO win over Adam Fugitt. This is where some people started to notice that Morales might be a star in the sport. His next two fights against Max Griffin and Jake Matthews would be unanimous decision wins. Then he had the great win over Magny, setting himself up for this very moment.
Burns enters this matchup with a wealth of experience and a record of 22-8. Despite a recent three-fight skid, Burns is still a tough challenge. His last three losses came at the hands of former Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad, the number one Welterweight contender Sean Brady, and the current Welterweight Champion Jack Della Maddalena. To say that Burns doesn’t pose a threat to Morales would be foolish. His grappling credentials put him ahead in most fights, and throughout his career, he’s improved his striking to complement his ground game. Burns himself is not taking the matchup lightly, saying that he cannot afford to lose.
The clash between the styles of Morales and Burns should lead to an exciting fight. Morales’ reach advantage and striking accuracy will be tested against Burns’ relentless pressure and grappling advantage. A victory for Morales will catapult him to the top of the Welterweight Division, potentially getting him one fight away from a log-jammed Welterweight Division. For Burns, a win would reaffirm his position among the top Welterweights of the world and maybe set the stage for one last shot at the title.
