November 15, 2023 7:45 pm ET
LAS VEGAS – Michael Morales has a giant take a look at this Saturday, but he already has plans for the long run.
The UFC welterweight prospect takes on veteran Jake Matthews within the co-main occasion of UFC Fight Night 232. Though that is arguably Morales’ (15-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) the largest battle and highlight of his younger profession, the Ecuadorian fighter is keeping track of the UFC 299 pay-per-view in March, which options his countryman Marlon Vera towards UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley.
“I’m 100% certain that ‘Chito’ goes to return out with the win and be as excessive as doable,” Morales informed reporters in Portuguese at Wednesday’s media day. “We’ve proven it earlier than, however for me, Ecuador is probably the most badass nation. I feel that this a chance he’s constructed for himself and he’s already beat O’Malley. He’s certain of his work and I give him all my confidence that he’s going to return out the winner. This can be a nice alternative for him and different Ecuadorians as a result of he can open so many doorways for Latin America.
“If God permits, I’d like to share that occasion with him. That’s doable. That will be big for all of the people who find themselves supporting us and I want him the most effective sooner or later and I hope he stays champion.”
Morales could also be trying forward, however he is aware of what he has in entrance of him this Saturday. He believes Matthews (19-6 MMA, 12-6 UFC) is a really comparable fighter to him and thinks it is a nice alternative to additional his profession. “I feel it is a nice alternative,” Morales stated. “I’ve all the time revered my rivals because of their trajectory, I by no means discredit their work inside this nice league of UFC. I simply put together myself and keep prepared for every time they name me. I’m all the time coaching after each battle. I’m very pleased that I’m getting a extra skilled rival. This additionally helps me see the place I’m going. I feel coaching and being prepared all the time is one thing that I like doing. I’m simply doing the work I all the time do.”
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