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Dana White on Michael Morales vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov Rumor

UFC president Dana White has fueled speculation about a potential welterweight showdown between Michael Morales and Shavkat Rakhmonov, two fighters with lengthy recent layoffs. Morales last competed in November 2025, knocking out Sean Brady at UFC 322, while Rakhmonov’s last appearance came in December 2024, when he defeated Ian Machado Garry via unanimous decision at UFC 310.

Both fighters have recently hinted at a return to the Octagon, and White’s cautious but open remarks—“Could be. Could be”—suggest the matchup is under serious consideration.

If booked, the fight would likely serve as a high-stakes co-main event, potentially featuring five rounds, to complement a UFC welterweight title defense between champion Islam Makhachev and top contender Carlos Prates. White also noted Prates’ strong position to challenge Makhachev, indicating the UFC may be strategically aligning these bouts to ensure depth in the division.

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