Did Michael Morales really lose before the UFC? Inside the early-career defeat that changed his perfect record
Michael Morales. Image Source: MMA Junkie/USA Today
Michael Morales’ rapid rise in the UFC welterweight division has been one of the most compelling stories in mixed martial arts. But the Ecuadorian phenom’s once-pristine undefeated record has now come under scrutiny after a major MMA database added a previously unknown loss from his teenage years.
The controversy erupted this week when respected statistics site Tapology updated Morales’ professional record to 20–1, citing an early-career defeat that occurred long before he entered the UFC spotlight. The revelation has ignited fierce debate among fans, fighters, and analysts, while prompting a fiery response from Morales himself.
Michael Morales’ Meteoric Rise in the UFC
Ranked No. 4 in the UFC welterweight division, Morales has built his reputation on power, composure, and devastating finishes. His breakout moment came in November at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden, where he delivered a brutal knockout of Sean Brady.
That win marked his third straight UFC finish, firmly establishing him as a legitimate title contender and placing him on a potential collision course with newly crowned champion Islam Makhachev. Until now, Morales was widely recognized as undefeated at 19–0.
The Early-Career Fight That Changed Everything
According to Tapology, Morales competed in a reality-style MMA tournament in Ecuador in 2017 under the league Ultima Pelea. He reportedly won a qualifying bout before suffering a loss in the quarterfinals at age 18.
The fight ended when Morales was caught in a triangle choke and absorbed strikes until the referee intervened. While originally announced as a knockout, Tapology reclassified it as a submission loss after reviewing footage.
The opponent, Ricardo Centeno, entered the bout with a 1–5 record and later finished his career at 10–10.
Why Tapology Counts the Fight as Professional
Tapology explained that the rules, structure, and participant experience met its criteria for a professional MMA bout, even though the event aired as a reality competition.
Unlike The Ultimate Fighter, which holds an exhibition exemption under US athletic commissions, Tapology does not grant similar status to international reality shows unless officially designated.
As a result, Morales’ record was amended to include one additional professional win and one professional loss, shifting him from 19–0 to 20–1.
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Michael Morales Fires Back at Tapology
Morales did not stay silent.
Taking to Instagram, the UFC contender blasted the decision, writing:
“I’ll punch injustice right in the face. F, you Tapology.”
He also shared a screenshot from rival database Sherdog, which still lists him as 19–0, reinforcing his stance that the fight should not count.
Several fighters familiar with the event supported Morales, arguing that the bout’s two-round format, banned elbows, and reality-show structure disqualify it from professional classification.
Fans Rally Behind the UFC Star
Fans overwhelmingly sided with Morales, criticizing Tapology for what they viewed as an unnecessary technicality.
One fan compared the situation to “that one classmate asking for extra homework,” while others dismissed the loss as irrelevant to Morales’ current elite-level performances.
Crucially, the UFC itself has not updated Morales’ official record, which is expected to remain 19–0 for promotional and regulatory purposes.
What This Means for Morales’ Title Hopes
Despite the controversy, Morales’ standing in the UFC remains unchanged. His recent performances, finishing rate, and top-five ranking still make him one of the division’s most dangerous contenders.
If anything, the episode has added a layer of humanity and resilience to his story, qualities that often resonate with fans and matchmakers alike.
FAQ
Who is Michael Morales?
Michael Morales is an Ecuadorian UFC welterweight fighter currently ranked No. 4 in the division and considered a top title contender.
Was Michael Morales undefeated?
He was widely considered undefeated at 19–0 until Tapology added an early-career loss, changing his record to 20–1.
What fight caused the controversy?
A 2017 reality-show tournament bout in Ecuador where Morales lost via triangle choke at age 18.
Does the UFC recognize the loss?
No. The UFC has not updated Morales’ official record, which remains 19–0.
Why did Tapology count the fight as professional?
Tapology determined the rules, structure, and competitors met professional MMA criteria.
How did Michael Morales respond?
He strongly criticized Tapology and pointed to Sherdog, which still lists him as undefeated.
Does this affect Morales’ title chances?
Not currently. His UFC ranking, performances, and momentum remain unchanged.
Who did Michael Morales lose to?
Ricardo Centeno, a journeyman fighter who later finished his career with a 10–10 record.