Ian Machado Garry, set to challenge Islam Makhachev for the welterweight championship at UFC 330 on August 15, recently suggested Michael Morales should move up to 185 pounds.
What happened?
Machado Garry made the comment on "The Ariel Helwani Show", stating Morales is young, big, and somewhat talented, and could do well in the 185-pound division.
Morales responded swiftly, saying "Suck it" to Machado Garry's advice on his Instagram story.
Why it matters for Ian Machado Garry
Machado Garry's suggestion may have been seen as condescending by Morales, who remains unbeaten with a 19-0 MMA record and 7-0 in the UFC.
Machado Garry has a 17-1 MMA record and 10-1 in the UFC, and his comments may have been intended to psyche out his rival.
What comes next?
The exchange between Machado Garry and Morales adds fuel to the fire ahead of Machado Garry's title fight against Makhachev.
Makhachev, with a 28-1 MMA record and 17-1 in the UFC, will look to defend his title against Machado Garry at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
The event is scheduled to take place on August 15, and the outcome will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
Machado Garry's comments may have been a strategic move to distract Morales, but they have ultimately led to a heated response from the unbeaten fighter.
The rivalry between Machado Garry and Morales is likely to continue, with both fighters looking to prove themselves in the welterweight division.
Morales finished top contender Sean Brady by first-round TKO at UFC 322 in November, showcasing his skills and cementing his position as a top contender.
Machado Garry will need to be focused on his upcoming title fight, but the exchange with Morales adds an extra layer of complexity to the situation.
The outcome of the title fight will be crucial in determining the future of the welterweight division, and Machado Garry's comments have added an extra layer of intrigue to the event.