Undefeated welterweight contender Michael Morales tips the scales at 220 pounds just three months before UFC 336.
Undefeated Ultimate Fighting Championship contender Michael Morales has shocked the MMA community by revealing a massive weight of 220 pounds just three months before his next major career bout. The Ecuadorian fighter is notoriously known as one of the biggest athletes on the 170-pound roster, frequently bulking up significantly between active fight camps.
The 27-year-old athlete will step into the Octagon against Carlos Prates in the co-main event of UFC 336, scheduled to take place on January 30 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Morales is putting his flawless 7-0 UFC record on the line to claim interim gold and secure a future matchup with current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, according to information published by mmamania.
While Morales has previously proven his ability to shed massive amounts of weight in a short window, including an impressive 60-pound cut for a backup role at UFC 330, starting a title camp at heavyweight dimensions raises serious questions about his strategy, according to information published by mmamania.
The extreme weight cuts of Michael Morales
It is no secret that Michael Morales walks around at an incredible weight when he is not actively preparing for a professional bout. Bulking up to well over 200 pounds leaves the talented fighter with a notoriously difficult weight cut every single time he steps up to compete in the Ultimate Fighting Championship welterweight division.
By sharing a social media photo showcasing his heavyweight physique at 220 pounds, Morales highlighted the massive physical transition required over the next three months. Experts and fans alike are questioning whether starting from such a high baseline will hinder his performance in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
High stakes at UFC 336 in Toronto
The upcoming co-main event at UFC 336 represents the biggest opportunity of the career for Michael Morales. Facing off against Carlos Prates for interim gold is the ultimate test for the undefeated contender who currently holds a stellar 7-0 UFC record inside the organization.
Securing a victory in Toronto, Ontario, Canada will not only earn him the interim championship belt, but it will also set up a massive blockbuster clash against reigning division king Islam Makhachev sometime next year, adding immense pressure to his current training camp.
Previous success on short notice
Despite concerns over his heavy walk-around weight, Michael Morales has a track record of successfully managing his body for high-pressure situations. The Ecuadorian contender previously shed an incredible 60 pounds to hit the required championship weight during his recent UFC 330 backup role.
With a full training camp ahead of him this time around, the 27-year-old athlete has ample time to drop the necessary pounds, though critics continue to debate whether carrying heavyweight mass so close to fight week is a disservice to his overall conditioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michael Morales fighting at UFC 336?
Michael Morales is scheduled to fight Carlos Prates in the co-main event at UFC 336 for the interim title.
Where is UFC 336 taking place?
UFC 336 will take place in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on January 30.
What is Michael Morales weight between fight camps?
Michael Morales walks around at well over 200 pounds, recently revealing a massive weight of 220 pounds three months out from his title fight.
