TLDR
- Jack Della Maddalena and Michael Morales are both being lined up for separate welterweight fights on an upcoming UFC card
- The UFC views these matchups as critical tests for two of the division’s fastest-rising prospects
- Contracts have not yet been finalized, but both sides are reportedly close to agreement for the spring event
- A potential Della Maddalena versus Morales fight could happen if both win their next bouts
- Morales recently had his undefeated record restored after a scoring controversy was resolved
Sources: Bloody Elbow | MMA Junkie | Sherdog
The UFC is targeting separate welterweight matchups for Jack Della Maddalena and Michael Morales on an upcoming spring event. Both fighters are considered among the division’s fastest-rising prospects.
According to people with knowledge of the situation, contracts have not yet been finalized. However, both sides are reportedly close to reaching agreement for the bouts.
Michael Morales says he’s discussing a fight with Jack Della Maddalena, but is ready to step in against Islam Makhachev if needed 👀#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/1RgBR2hxkR
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) January 9, 2026
High Stakes for Both Prospects
The UFC views these fights as critical tests for Della Maddalena and Morales. Promoters believe the outcomes could have serious ranking implications for the welterweight division.
Della Maddalena has been vocal about his next opponent preferences. He recently stated he wants to face either Shavkat Rakhmonov or Carlos Prates in his next fight.
Morales is also climbing the welterweight ranks with an undefeated record. His record was recently restored after a controversial scoring error had temporarily shown a loss on his professional record.
The Ecuadorian fighter issued a profane response when the error first appeared. A website later apologized for what they called a “sh*tstorm” after incorrectly listing the result.
Future Matchup Possibilities
Analysts are examining how these separate fights could affect future matchups in the division. A potential clash between Della Maddalena and Morales themselves could be on the horizon if both win their upcoming bouts.
Both fighters have been building momentum with impressive winning streaks. Della Maddalena has finished multiple opponents in devastating fashion during his UFC run.
Morales has shown similar finishing ability throughout his career. The undefeated prospect has stopped opponents with both strikes and submissions.
The welterweight division has seen increased movement in recent months. Multiple contenders are jockeying for position in hopes of earning a title shot.
The winner of each upcoming fight could move closer to breaking into the division’s top rankings. Current welterweight champion Leon Edwards has defended his title multiple times since winning the belt.
Della Maddalena trains out of Australia and has become one of the country’s most promising UFC fighters. He has finished several ranked opponents since joining the promotion.
Morales represents Ecuador and has built a loyal following with his aggressive fighting style. He has never lost a professional MMA fight in his career.
The spring UFC event featuring these matchups has not been officially announced yet. The promotion typically books multiple high-level fights on each card to attract pay-per-view buyers.
Both Della Maddalena and Morales have expressed interest in fighting top-ranked opposition. A win in their next outing would likely grant that wish.
The welterweight division currently features several elite fighters competing for title opportunities. Belal Muhammad, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Jack Della Maddalena are all in the mix.
Morales will need to continue his undefeated streak to break into the top ten. His recent record restoration resolved any questions about his perfect professional record.
