170 is so deep right now, you have 3 guys with legitimate claim to a title shot right now & that doesn’t even include Shavkat Rakhmanov. So the question is, how do you book these welterweights next?
Carlos Prates vs Michael Morales
What a performance! Assuming the heavily rumored Islam vs Garry title fight gets booked next, this is the clear fight to make to determine who gets the winner in 2027. It’s an absolute banger between two monster KO artists. And for what it’s worth, Prates shouldn’t be able to leapfrog Morales, who most wanted to see get this shot over Garry. Morales is willing, so it’s up to Prates & the matchmakers. It’s such an obvious fight to make, don’t F it up, Mick.
Quillan Sakilld vs Dan Hooker
Sakilld did what he was expected to do, catching the chin of Dariush early. Hooker missed out on the Paddy sweepstakes, but fighting a hot prospect like Quillan is still a great opportunity to get some momentum back. Plus, the classic Aussie vs Kiwi rivalry just has this matchup making too much sense.
Steve Erceg vs Amir Albazi
Albazi has an indefensible #7 ranking, multiple spots higher than Moreno who handily beat him just two fights ago. He needs to fight way down the rankings, and Erceg deserves to fight for a top 10 spot next after back to back wins. Book it.
Jack Della Madellana vs Leon Edwards
Tough day at the office for Jack, who was just up against the best version of an already terrifying fighter. I originally had Michael Page for this spot, but I like this battle of former champions more. Both guys have been dominated in recent losses, so while it may not necessarily be a loser leaves town matchup, this is really to see who stays afloat as a top 10 fighter… while the other guy would basically be out of contention permanently. High stakes on this one & it could easily headline a fight night or help stack a numbered main card.
Marwan Rahiki vs Lerryan Douglas
Disclaimer: I’m on the Douglas hype train, big time. His last two fights, he has absolutely wrecked his opponents with heavy hands. Same goes for Rahiki, though, which makes this bout guaranteed action. I know some are opposed to booking prospects against each other but I can’t see a better way to determine who gets first shot at a ranking.